The virus that causes COVID-19 has proven to be an unpredictable foe because of its ability to quickly mutate. However, one thing that is predictable is there will be an upswing in the number of COVID cases in late autumn and early winter.

Cold weather forces people inside, where the virus can be more easily transmitted in cramped spaces. Gatherings of extended families and friends on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s and the accompanying travel help it jump geographic boundaries.