The awaited end of the COVID-19 pandemic

[객원 에디터 5기 / 민찬홍 기자] The Covid-19 pandemic has had severe impacts on the globe, which caused norms and laws to quickly adapt to the devastating virus. As infection cases and mortality rates lowered and vaccination rates increased, social distancing regulations and mask mandates were either lifted or eased in many countries. Even China now reports a steady decline in its number of cases, raising hopes that the pandemic is finally leaving.  

As reported by the CDC, the number of severe cases and deaths decreased in China. “In this time, no new variant has been discovered, and the country’s current wave is coming to an end.” As a result, pandemic restrictions have been gradually eased, allowing millions to be reunited for family gatherings during the Lunar New Year holidays  without causing a resurgence in infections. In addition, clinic visits and hospitalization rates have dropped by over 90% and 85% through January, respectively. No new variants have emerged, which suggests that China’s current wave is finally coming to an end. Indeed, infectious diseases expert Hsu Li Yang stated, “This drop in deaths follows the decline in the first huge wave of cases after China relaxed its restrictions.” This reaction has been echoed across other countries as they face similar declines.

Director-General of the WHO, Tedreos Ghebreyesus, has further announced that though Covid-19 still remains a global health emergency, the world is expected to transition out of the emergency phase this year, speculating further reduced cases and hospitalization. 

The end of the pandemic is undoubtedly near. However, there is still a potential possibility of surges if precautions are not taken. Adhanom warned“Do not underestimate this virus. It has and will continue to surprise us.” Indeed, though weekly Covid-induced deaths have dropped 70% in Wuhan, China during the initial peak of the massive Omicron, deaths started increasing again in December that brought with it one of the biggest waves of infection. Likewise, the lack of emerging variants may be due to declines in surveillance and genetic sequencing. Proper health tools and spread of information and awareness are still required, and misinformation should be regulated to avoid misconceptions or confusion.

Sources: BBC, CNBC