Five years later, COVID-19's deadly grip persists

Five years after COVID-19 emerged, the virus continues to infect and kill, with 777 million cases and over seven million deaths. The pandemic devastated health systems and economies, leading to widespread lockdowns. By 2022, infection and death rates declined due to vaccine immunity and previous infections. COVID-19 became endemic in May 2023, with occasional resurgences. Vaccines remain vital, but booster shot uptake remains low. Future pandemics like bird flu remain a concern.