This is an anniversary none of us hoped to celebrate. Who would have thought in March of 2020 that we would still be dealing with COVID-19 and the global pandemic in March of 2022? Other than experts in the field of infectious diseases and epidemiology, few of us envisioned what was ahead when community spread of the novel coronavirus was first recognized. I laugh when I think about writing my first editorial about COVID-19. There are 3 months between submission to production and when an article appears in print. I was afraid the pandemic would be over, and my editorial would be outdated!
According to the World Health Organization (2021), there have been over five million deaths worldwide and more than 900,000 deaths in the United States. Many of those who suffered from COVID-19 have been left with long-term symptoms. Much is to be learned about "long covid," but with an estimated 146 million cases of COVID-19 in the United States (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021), persistent symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and anxiety are sure to adversely affect society and the healthcare system.
There has been a cascade of other sequelae related to the pandemic. Healthcare workers have been stretched beyond their limits. At minimum, many are suffering from burnout-at worst posttraumatic stress disorder. Routine preventive healthcare has been sidelined. Disruptions in elementary and secondary education have led to learning loss and unprecedented numbers of women (1.8 million at last count) leaving the workforce (Politico, 2021). Wide variations in consumer spending patterns have disrupted supply chains and led to inflation. Microchips needed for cars as well as a wide variety of electronics are in short supply, frustrating consumers.
Unlike some infectious diseases, COVID-19 does not confer lifelong immunity. This virus is very good at seeking out people to infect, and with waning immunity following both the illness and vaccine, it is becoming increasingly clear this virus is here to stay. As we shift from pandemic to endemic, hopefully the third anniversary will celebrate simple and accurate rapid testing, improvement in the vaccine to cover new variants, and refinement of early treatment options that decrease the risk of severe disease.
Best wishes,
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