LIVING WITH THE GHOST: CAN WE EVER ESCAPE COVID-19’S SHADOW?

Abstract

Dear Reader, A strange virus flipped our world upside down, two and a half years ago, making us feel like we were living in a science-fiction film. Lockdowns, masks, and social isolation were all terms we had to learn. Uncertainty reigned supreme and terror became our constant companion. In 2024, a separate worry persists: Will we ever completely move on from COVID-19? We overcame COVID, but the next variant is JN.1. We don’t know about long-term immunity or “Long JN.1 effects,” but we must learn to live with it. More research, mental health assistance, healthcare reform and international collaborations are critical. It’s terrifying, but humans are strong. We can adapt and win again.