An infection is said to be endemic in a population when there is the constant presence of it. This is the natural progression of many human infections such as HIV or the seasonal flu. This means that COVID-19 outbreaks can happen anywhere and anytime. Many experts now believe that COVID-19 will move from pandemic to endemic.
- New Variants: Experts believe that COVID-19- will become a part of the viral ecosystem (like the seasonal flu) – because of the spread of several variants.
- It will take time for the whole population to be vaccinated and achieve herd immunity.
- Prevalent reach of the virus means that it is most likely that it will persist in most parts of the world.
- Smaller outbreaks that are less deadly, but a constant threat should be expected.
- Vaccines are very effective at preventing serious illness and death; however they are less effective at preventing infection.
Post-COVID-19 Management:
- Shift focus on cleaning the air rather than on cleaning the surfaces: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) clarified its guidance about surface transmission in its scientific study released on April 5,2021 , stating that ‘The principal mode by which people are infected with SARS-CoV-2 is through exposure to respiratory droplets carrying infectious virus. It is possible for people to be infected through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects (fomites), but the risk is generally considered to be low’.
- Ventilation: Airflow is important. This is because ventilation, where indoor and outdoor air is exchanged, helps to ensure that the virus is not “building up,” thereby increasing the likelihood that others in the space will breathe it in. Using an air purifier with a HEPA filter when there is insufficient fresh air will be key to removing airborne particles of COVID-19 and preventing outbreaks. In studies conducted by McGill University, it was confirmed that the material used in Airpura's HEPA filters showed close to 100 % aerosol particle removal efficiency for nanoparticles (as small as 0.01nm).
- Washing your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. This is a reliable way to prevent surface transmission.
- Get a COVID-19 vaccine when you can
- Masks and social distancing - Continue wearing masks and maintaining social distance when indoors.