The United States recorded a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases, with over 100,000 new infections reported in a single day. The surge is believed to be driven by the highly contagious Delta variant. Health officials are urging the public to get vaccinated and continue practicing safety measures such as wearing masks and social distancing. Hospitals in some states are struggling to cope with the rising number of hospitalizations, prompting concerns about healthcare capacity. Several states have reinstated mask mandates and other restrictions in an effort to curb the spread of the virus. The situation is being closely monitored by authorities as efforts to contain the virus continue.