As the mercury rises, it isn't just the heat you have to worry about this summer. Yes, we're talking about that pesky humbugger: COVID-19. As if sunburn and body odor weren't bad enough, you might also be dealing with a general state of pandemic-induced paranoia given the uptick in cases.

So, are you freaking out? Getting cold sweats (which probably has nothing to do with the external temperature)? We get it. This pandemic has been like a reality show on steroids, and we're all tired of tuning in. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Our job here is to bust myths, shoot straight, and oddly enough, make you laugh while we're at it. So buckle up as we emerge from the pandemic's convoluted foggy shadows to shed some truth-light.

For starters, yes, COVID-19 cases have spiked in 42 states, and emergency room visits have indeed risen, according to our buddies at the CDC. No sugarcoating there. Nonetheless, and this might seem counterintuitive, the severity of symptoms appears to have diminished for many. Unless you belong to the at-risk population (elderly, under-the-weather, or stubbornly unvaccinated), your encounter with the virus is likely to be less dire than in previous months.

If you do test positive, however, you still need to take precautions. Keep your mask on, and abandon your communal spirit for a while, Pepper Pots, because it's isolation time again. Remember, this isolation is physician-approved and super hip, adding to your aloof, mysterious appeal-grunge vibe: a sprinkle of COVID chic, if you will.

Wondering about Paxlovid? (No, it's not the name of the latest hipster band you haven't heard of.) If you qualify (like if you're older, have underlying conditions, etc.), Paxlovid could be an antiviral worth considering. Consult your health maestro before popping these babies to avoid any unwanted drug interactions.

As for how long you'll be playing host to this pesky viral guest, it's usually four or five days. But hey, Mother Nature loves variety, so it could vary. To kick Covid's ass in the shortest time possible, you might want to give your doc a buzz if you're at high risk.

Then there's the favorite hobby of many during this pandemic-a delightful DIY project: home remedies. Classic hits include ample rest, hydration, nausea-busting OTC medicines, and – a wildcard - fun isolation activities (hello, yoga).

Lastly, let's whip out the big straw for the rumor slushy about Long COVID. While it's too soon to have definitive data, a recent article in The New England Journal of Medicine suggests that the risk posed by long COVID might be on a downward roll. Perhaps, this is a plot twist we could all appreciate in the reality TV show that is COVID-19.

So next time you bask in the bittersweet burn of the summer sun, remember, the heat isn't the only factor turning up. Tip your hat to Mr. COVID for keeping things interesting but be smart, stay informed, and practice 'safety-first' as your summer mantra.