The summer wave of COVID-19 is in full swing, and many states, including Texas, are seeing an increase in case numbers.

The CDC estimates that COVID-19 infections are increasing or likely to increase in 44 U.S. states and territories, declining or likely to decline in one state or territory, and stable or uncertain in five states and territories – an indication that an expected summer surge is underway.

The latest data from the CDC shows that COVID-19 activity continues to increase across the country. The data tracker shows Texas' current status as “growing.”

Although the CDC no longer tracks COVID cases, it estimates transmission based on emergency room visits. Both COVID deaths and emergency room visits have increased in the last week. Hospitalizations also increased by 25% from May 26 to June 1, according to the latest data.

Dr. Ricky Williams is an emergency physician at Medical City. The chief physician there said that more patients are being treated for the virus, especially in the emergency rooms.

“We are seeing a slight increase in our numbers, somewhere between an increase and a spike,” Williams said.

“Everyone is in close contact. Everyone is traveling. Plus, everyone is on vacation and the kids aren't in school. So all in all, that's probably contributing to some of the increase.”

Earlier this year, the state Department of Health removed COVID-19 from the list of “reportable” diseases, meaning doctors no longer have to report positive cases. However, COVID trackers still exist and the data is available.

Steven Love is president and CEO of the DFW Hospital Council. He said his conversations with doctors confirm the data. But he said medical professionals are not sounding the alarm because hospitalizations and death rates are still low.

Love said he understands that some people have grown tired of the COVID-19 discussion.

“And I understand that. I understand that. I appreciate that,” he said. “We're just saying, be vigilant during the holidays so we can keep the number of cases down.”