(ANN/THE DAWN) – Five years since COVID-19 began disrupting the world, the virus continues to infect and claim lives globally, albeit at much lower levels compared to the height of the pandemic. Here’s an overview of the current situation and lessons learned.
The current state
Since its emergence in December 2019, COVID-19 has officially infected over 777 million people and claimed more than seven million lives worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). However, the true toll is believed to be significantly higher.
In May 2023, the WHO declared the emergency phase of the pandemic over, marking a turning point as the virus transitioned toward endemic status. Despite this, COVID-19 remains a public health concern, with more than 3,000 deaths reported globally across 27 countries from October to November last year.
WHO Pandemic Preparedness Director Maria Van Kerkhove noted, “The world wants to forget this pathogen that is still with us… Covid has been so traumatic that many want to put it in the past.”
Variants and vaccines
The Omicron variant, which emerged in November 2021, continues to dominate globally. Its subvariants, including the current KP.3.1.1 and the rising XEC, have not shown increased severity, though the possibility of more transmissible or deadly strains in the future remains.
Vaccination efforts have played a pivotal role in reducing severe cases and deaths. Over 13.6 billion doses have been administered globally, though inequities in vaccine distribution persist. Updated booster shots are available in some nations, but uptake remains low, with fewer than one percent of healthcare workers receiving boosters in 2024.
The burden of long Covid
Long Covid continues to affect millions worldwide, with symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and shortness of breath lingering for months after infection. The WHO estimates that about six per cent of those infected develop long Covid, posing a significant burden on healthcare systems.
Research into the condition is ongoing, but much remains unknown, with no definitive tests or treatments currently available.
Preparing for future pandemics
The Covid-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global health systems, economic stability, and vaccine equity. Experts have warned of future pandemics, urging nations to learn from Covid and prepare.
Focus has recently shifted to bird flu (H5N1), following the first reported human death from the virus in Louisiana, USA. While the case involved direct exposure to infected birds, there is currently no evidence of person-to-person transmission.
Efforts to negotiate a global treaty on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response are underway, but an agreement has yet to be reached. Disparities between wealthy and poorer nations on equitable resource allocation remain a key sticking point.
Looking ahead
The Covid-19 pandemic also saw a rise in vaccine scepticism and misinformation. This has raised concerns about the global response to future health crises, particularly as vaccine sceptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr., appointed by President-elect Donald Trump, is set to lead the US health response.
As the world moves forward, scientists and policymakers emphasise the importance of preparedness, equity, and collaboration to mitigate the impact of future pandemics while continuing to manage the ongoing challenges of COVID-19.
