Back in 2020, the world was hit with an ever confusing and life-threatening disease which we today know as COVID-19. There have been several tests introduced such as the COVID-19 Lateral Flow test. But does the test make the global disease any less dangerous, let’s find out. It has since then become an global health concern, and experts continue to find effective treatments for the virus every day. Millions of people have died, and thousands are still dealing with its long-term effects.
However, we have now managed to deal with the infection. With countries imposing multiple lockdowns with every new COVID-19 variant, SOPs and diagnostic tests have become part and parcel of our lives. In addition, the COVID lateral flow test, and COVID antibody test among others helps create vaccines and treat new COVID infections.
But, does it all indicate that we can sigh in relief? Is COVID-19 still as daunting as it was in the past? Let’s find out.
Viruses are Viruses
An innate characteristic of every virus is that they replicate themselves as much as they can. However, they may not want their host to die before they are transferred to a new one. Similarly, the COVID-19 virus does not show severe and apparent symptoms unless significant time has passed.
For instance, if you are infected with COVID-19, you may meet several people and spread the infection in your circle before you test positive or even show signs. So, despite people can openly socialise and attend public gatherings, a new variant may pop up in no time.
Every Variant is Distinct
The Wuhan COVID-19 strain claimed dozens of lives. It was the first to turn off the alarm for a global emergency. However, the Delta and Alpha variants were as furious as they could be. In the meantime, we could understand the older strains; we were slammed with new Sars-CoV-2 infections. In addition, every new infection is unpredictable since it is not related to previous variants.
This causes trouble in giving patients effective treatment and understanding how new variants work. However, the clock keeps ticking, and people die before new vaccines and treatments are developed. So, although it is claimed that new strains have been milder, it won’t take long before a new variant disturbs our lives.
Is COVID-19 Endemic?
Calling the Sars-CoV-2 an endemic is only a trick to make us forget the effects and destruction COVID-19 has caused. It can only help make people more comfortable with lockdowns, Standard Operating Measures, Vaccines, and the COVID lateral flow test.
However, the literal meaning of an endemic is that the disease will prevail in societies constantly. But, the infection may become controllable and predictable to an extent. For instance, a few commonly known examples of endemic are as follows:
- Smallpox
- Polio
- Malaria
- Lassa fever
- Measles
- Mumps
All these diseases are prevalent. They claim several lives every day. However, they are more controlled and can be treated in time. Similarly, the COVID-19 may also continue to exist among us. However, it may become slightly easier to handle than before considering the impact of antibody tests and rapid lateral flow test.
Do Vaccines Help?
Vaccinations against the Sars-CoV-2 are one way to ease the infection symptoms. However, you may not become immune to the virus. Instead, your body will become adept at fighting off the disease more efficiently compared to unvaccinated people. In addition, the vaccinations may not last forever, so we can now know how long it will take a new infection to affect you.