2024-10-31 09:17:00
It has already been 5 years since COVID 19 appeared in the world. Since then, it has not gone unnoticed since it still remains very present. However, there is a major evolution in health care and new scientific studies are regularly carried out. Between epidemic wave and vaccination campaign, what is the assessment of the COVID 19 situation five years later?
Figures that speak: assessment of the epidemic
Five years after the start of the pandemic COVID-19scientists are able to study the situation and its evolution. Since its appearance, the virus has infected millions of people around the world, with several epidemic waves marked by peaks in contamination. The World Health Organization (WHO) publishes weekly updates to monitor the evolution of cases globally and regionally, while Santé Publique France continues to provide regular reports.
In 2024, although SARS-CoV-2 is still present, it is circulating in epidemic waves and its impact at the hospital level remains low compared to the first months of its appearance. The mortality rate is also declining, although risk factors such as age and those with vulnerable health conditions are at significant risk of death.
The evolution of cases
Since June 2024, active circulation of the coronavirus has been observed in the French population. However, this new wave has a limited impact on hospitalizations and intensive care admissions.
Indeed, Public Health France certainly notes an increase in cases, but the hospital situation remains under control thanks to better organization and a lower number of serious cases. Furthermore, variants continue to be closely monitored by health authorities in order to prevent new waves.
The current impact on health systems
The impact of COVID-19 on health systems has evolved over time. Today, hospitals are facing much less pressure than at the start of the pandemic. Intensive care services are less saturated, in part due to better organization and improved treatment protocols.
Serious cases are also less frequent, in particular thanks to vaccination and progress in patient management. The crisis has also provided lessons in emergency management, making health systems more resilient. In addition, a good organization was gradually put in place to report cases. It is easily possible to do a test in a pharmacy or laboratory to quickly obtain the result.
While the population masters barrier gestures and applies them whenever necessary. This organization greatly reduces the spread of the virus.
Read also – After the “long Covid”, the “long flu”?
Vaccination: a shield against the virus
Global vaccination coverage has helped stop the progression of the epidemic. Vaccines are regularly adapted to cover new variants. In France, a new joint vaccination campaign against influenza and COVID-19 has been launched for winter 2024-2025 in order to strengthen the protection of vulnerable populations.
Santé Publique France aims to ensure lasting immunity and continue to protect the populations most at risk with a regularly renewed annual vaccine.
Read also – Covid/flu: Imminent launch of the joint vaccination campaign
COVID-19, an endemic disease?
COVID-19 is now becoming an endemic disease, meaning the virus continues to circulate, but in a more controlled manner. Health systems are adapting to this new reality, integrating COVID-19 management into routine care, as is the case for influenza. This involves maintaining constant vigilance, particularly with variant monitoring and regular vaccination campaigns.
However, this endemic phase does not mean the end of the virus, but controlled cohabitation, requiring continuous adjustments to minimize long-term health impacts.
Sources
Written by Camille V.
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**Interview with Dr. Emma Hartley: Analyzing the COVID-19 Situation Five Years Later**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Hartley. It’s hard to believe it’s been five years since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Could you start by giving us an overview of the current state of COVID-19?
**Dr. Hartley**: Thank you for having me. Yes, it’s indeed remarkable how far we’ve come. Currently, COVID-19 is still present, and we’ve been observing periodic epidemic waves. However, the situation has improved significantly. Unlike the early days of the pandemic, hospitals are experiencing much less strain, with fewer serious cases and hospitalizations.
**Interviewer**: That’s reassuring to hear. What do the latest figures show regarding cases and hospitalization rates?
**Dr. Hartley**: As of October 2024, we have noted an increase in COVID-19 cases across the French population since June, but the rise in hospitalizations and intensive care admissions has remained manageable. Health authorities have done well to keep a close watch on the evolving situation, particularly with new variants. The mortality rate is also declining, but we must remain cautious, especially for vulnerable populations.
**Interviewer**: Can you elaborate on how vaccination has impacted these numbers?
**Dr. Hartley**: Absolutely. Vaccination has played a critical role in reducing the severity of cases and preventing hospitalizations. With better vaccine coverage in the community, we’re witnessing fewer serious cases compared to the early pandemic months. This has allowed us to stabilize our health systems and focus on maintaining quality care for all patients.
**Interviewer**: It seems that health systems have learned valuable lessons throughout this crisis. What are some key changes that have been implemented to handle care more effectively?
**Dr. Hartley**: The pandemic prompted a reevaluation of our healthcare systems. We now have better treatment protocols, improved patient management strategies, and greater organization within hospitals. These changes allow us to respond more effectively to current and future health crises while maintaining care for other health conditions.
**Interviewer**: Looking ahead, what might the future hold for COVID-19 management?
**Dr. Hartley**: I believe we will continue to see COVID-19 circulate as an endemic virus, much like seasonal flu. As we monitor variants and adapt our vaccination strategies accordingly, we hope to keep serious cases low and ensure our healthcare systems remain resilient. Ongoing research and public awareness will be critical in this evolving landscape.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Dr. Hartley, for your insights and for helping us understand the current situation. It’s clear that while challenges remain, significant progress has been made in managing COVID-19.
**Dr. Hartley**: Thank you for having me. Let’s continue to prioritize health and safety as we move forward.
