A mysterious new virus emerged in Wuhan, China five years ago, sparking a global health crisis that has left millions dead and transformed public perceptions about managing deadly emerging pathogens. The virus is now known as COVID-19.
Despite widespread immunity from vaccinations and prior infections, the virus persists due to ongoing evolution, making vigilant monitoring by scientists necessary. An estimated 20 million people globally have died from COVID-19, with WHO estimates suggesting a true toll of at least three times that number.
Older adults remain most vulnerable to the coronavirus, accounting for nearly half of all hospitalizations and in-hospital deaths in the US during last winter. COVID-19 vaccines saved tens of millions of lives globally and became the cornerstone of efforts to restore normalcy.
However, these vaccines have limitations, including diminishing protection against mild infections after a few months and requiring regular updates to keep pace with the virus’s evolution. Researchers are exploring next-generation options, including nasal vaccines.
The origins of COVID-19 remain unclear, although scientists believe it originated in bats before infecting humans. Investigations have been complicated by political disputes and accusations from international researchers that China has withheld crucial evidence.
As the world marks this milestone, leaders are calling for learning from COVID-19 to build a healthier tomorrow. Scientists continue to classify virus variants using Greek letters, including the omicron subvariant currently dominating in the US.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/covid-19-5-years-old-facts-mysteries-surrounding-virus-2008809