Four years later, what do we know about COVID-19? – Newswise

Newswise Four years ago, a brand new virus turned the world upside down.

Today, thanks to researchers, medical and public health experts, pharmaceutical companies, engineers and others, we know more and can do more about the coronavirus called SARS-CoV2, and the disease called COVID-19, than ever before.

Were in a much better place than we were just a year or two ago, saidAdam Lauring, M.D.,Ph.D., an infectious disease doctor and virus expert at MIchigan Medicine, the University of Michigans academic medical center. While the virus continues to challenge us with its evolution, we have vaccines that work and a surveillance system that provides data to inform what might be annual updates moving forward. We still have some work to do to improve vaccine coverage, especially in the most vulnerable populations.

The virus can still cause serious problems in the short and long term, saidPreeti Malani, M.D., a U-M infectious disease doctor with special training in the care of older adults. So its still important to take steps to avoid infection and avoid passing the virus to others if you catch it.

Heres a summary of the latest things to know and do:

Because early symptoms of COVID-19, flu and RSV are similar,checking this mapcan tell you about current levels of all respiratory illness in your state.

In addition to seeking a prescription from your usual health care provider or aTest to Treat site, you can use theHome Test to Treat serviceto see a provider and get a prescription or referral virtually.

See the rest here:

Four years later, what do we know about COVID-19? - Newswise