Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

India Underreported Nearly 20 Lakh Excess Covid Deaths In 2021- Was Death Toll Really 6X Higher?

The second wave of <span>Covid</span>-19 in India was not just a crisis, it was a tragedy experienced in all corners of India. When oxygen supplies in hospitals ran out and funeral pyres were lit throughout the day and night, it was clear for everyone to see and feel how vast the devastation was. Family members lost dear ones within days, even hours. Yet, as dire as the situation appeared, recently published government statistics from India verify what many suspected- the actual death count was much worse. The official count of Covid deaths in 2021 was 3.3 lakh but the true excess deaths that year exceeded 20 lakh. That's almost six times greater than reported. The shocking gap indicates a trend of underreporting, bureaucratic obscurity, and political evasion, evoking international concern regarding transparency and accountability in pandemic governance.

India reported more than 1.02 crore deaths in 2021 — a whopping rise of almost 21 lakh from the last year — as per latest figures made public by India's Office of the Registrar General. In 2020, 81.2 lakh deaths were registered, and in 2019, the figure was 76.4 lakh. The surge in death, at the height of the second wave of the pandemic, sends red lights flashing immediately. Though not every one of these deaths can be attributed to Covid-19, the timing and the circumstances imply the virus contributed heavily, underreported.

Three official data sets — Sample Registration System (SRS), Civil Registration System (CRS), and Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCD) — were employed to assess trends in mortality. Of the three, CRS continues to be the most complete source, and it irrefutably indicates a record spike in deaths in 2021. All this is not only crucial for the realization of the pandemic's actual burden but also provides a prism into India's death registration and certification system failures.

<h2>Why the Official Covid Death Figures Don’t Add Up</h2>

The Union Ministry of Health had pegged the total number of Covid-19 deaths in 2021 at 3.3 lakh. However, the MCCD report, based on medically certified deaths, listed 4.13 lakh Covid-related fatalities. That alone suggests a significant gap. But here’s the critical twist: the MCCD data only covers 24 lakh deaths — just 23% of all deaths registered that year.

This difference suggests that there may not have been medical certification of numerous Covid-19 deaths, either because the healthcare infrastructure was burdened or because of systemic failure in certifying causes of death. Even among that smaller dataset, Covid-19 deaths exceeded the Health Ministry's figure, directly indicating official undercounting.

Maybe the most stark evidence of underreporting is from Gujarat. The BJP-ruled state had reported just 5,812 Covid deaths in 2021. But the actual number of deaths registered through CRS was 1.95 lakh — more than 33 times greater. Independent calculations by Kerala-based volunteer Krishna Prasad's dashboard reported that Gujarat had more than 2 lakh excess deaths that year.

Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal also had the same trends, with huge discrepancies between Covid-19 death claims and the actual amount of excess mortality. Madhya Pradesh had reported 6,927 official Covid deaths but had an excess of almost 2 lakh deaths over 2020. Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state of India, had an excess of 4.78 lakh deaths in 2021 when just 22,918 were officially claimed due to Covid-19. Kerala was an exception to the trend, having relatively more accurate death statistics.

<h2>What's Behind India's Spike in Crude Death Rate</h2>

Statisticians also reference the crude death rate, deaths per 1,000, as another insightful metric. From a consistent rate of 6 in both 2019 and 2020, it surged to 7.5 in 2021. This increase is not random; it reflects an abnormal spike in mortality concurrent with the pandemic peak.

If India's crude death rate of 6 in the historical years continued to 2021, the estimated deaths would have been approximately 82 lakh, consistent with previous years. The increased crude death rate in 2021 aligns with the 1.02 crore reported deaths very closely, implying over 20 lakh excess deaths, which cannot be accounted for by better registration.

In April 2022, the World Health Organization put India's estimated Covid-19 toll in 2020 and 2021 at 47 lakh deaths, either directly or indirectly due to the pandemic — eight-and-a-half times the number reported officially. India's government had dismissed the WHO report for being inappropriate in methodology for a country of the size of India. But interestingly enough, the very Registrar General of India whose figures have been quoted by the government is now lending strength to the suspicion of large-scale undercounting.

The contrast is stark: India dismissed international models as speculative, but its own official statistics now confirm excess deaths in line with WHO estimates. This is a matter of profound concern regarding data suppression, political motive, and the right of citizens and the international health community to the truth.

Mortality data accurately gathered matters more than numbers. It affects how nations prepare for pandemics, how resources are allocated to healthcare, and how people have faith in public institutions. For India, the world health leader and manufacturer of vaccines, poor data transparency erodes credibility and undermines global cooperation in public health.

Additionally, for the uncounted families many of whom were denied medical care, social acceptance, and economic ruin, the government silence is another injustice. Without official acknowledgment, they're typically not given government compensation, aid, or even recognition.

The information is now out presenting how India saw a mortality spike in 2021 that is more than six times bigger than its official Covid-19 death toll. It matters little whether the cause is deliberate cover-up or systemic failure- the result is the same- the lives lost in secrecy amount to millions.

Going forward, India has to build stronger health data infrastructure, conduct independent audits, and uphold transparency. The world witnessed the funeral pyres burn and now, the figures finally tell us the unthinkable truth many had suspected all along.

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The second wave of Covid-19 in India was not just a crisis, it was a tragedy experienced in all corners of India. When oxygen supplies in hospitals ran out and funeral pyres were lit throughout the day and night, it was clear for everyone to see and feel how vast the devastation was. Family members lost dear ones within days, even hours. Yet, as dire as the situation appeared, recently published government statistics from India verify what many suspected- the actual death count was much worse. The official count of Covid deaths in 2021 was 3.3 lakh but the true excess deaths that year exceeded 20 lakh. That's almost six times greater than reported. The shocking gap indicates a trend of underreporting, bureaucratic obscurity, and political evasion, evoking international concern regarding transparency and accountability in pandemic governance.India reported more than 1.02 crore deaths in 2021 — a whopping rise of almost 21 lakh from the last year — as per latest figures made public by India's Office of the Registrar General. In 2020, 81.2 lakh deaths were registered, and in 2019, the figure was 76.4 lakh. The surge in death, at the height of the second wave of the pandemic, sends red lights flashing immediately. Though not every one of these deaths can be attributed to Covid-19, the timing and the circumstances imply the virus contributed heavily, underreported.Three official data sets — Sample Registration System (SRS), Civil Registration System (CRS), and Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCD) — were employed to assess trends in mortality. Of the three, CRS continues to be the most complete source, and it irrefutably indicates a record spike in deaths in 2021. All this is not only crucial for the realization of the pandemic's actual burden but also provides a prism into India's death registration and certification system failures.Why the Official Covid Death Figures Don’t Add UpThe Union Ministry of Health had pegged the total number of Covid-19 deaths in 2021 at 3.3 lakh. However, the MCCD report, based on medically certified deaths, listed 4.13 lakh Covid-related fatalities. That alone suggests a significant gap. But here’s the critical twist: the MCCD data only covers 24 lakh deaths — just 23% of all deaths registered that year.This difference suggests that there may not have been medical certification of numerous Covid-19 deaths, either because the healthcare infrastructure was burdened or because of systemic failure in certifying causes of death. Even among that smaller dataset, Covid-19 deaths exceeded the Health Ministry's figure, directly indicating official undercounting.Maybe the most stark evidence of underreporting is from Gujarat. The BJP-ruled state had reported just 5,812 Covid deaths in 2021. But the actual number of deaths registered through CRS was 1.95 lakh — more than 33 times greater. Independent calculations by Kerala-based volunteer Krishna Prasad's dashboard reported that Gujarat had more than 2 lakh excess deaths that year.Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal also had the same trends, with huge discrepancies between Covid-19 death claims and the actual amount of excess mortality. Madhya Pradesh had reported 6,927 official Covid deaths but had an excess of almost 2 lakh deaths over 2020. Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state of India, had an excess of 4.78 lakh deaths in 2021 when just 22,918 were officially claimed due to Covid-19. Kerala was an exception to the trend, having relatively more accurate death statistics.What's Behind India's Spike in Crude Death RateStatisticians also reference the crude death rate, deaths per 1,000, as another insightful metric. From a consistent rate of 6 in both 2019 and 2020, it surged to 7.5 in 2021. This increase is not random; it reflects an abnormal spike in mortality concurrent with the pandemic peak.If India's crude death rate of 6 in the historical years continued to 2021, the estimated deaths would have been approximately 82 lakh, consistent with previous years. The increased crude death rate in 2021 aligns with the 1.02 crore reported deaths very closely, implying over 20 lakh excess deaths, which cannot be accounted for by better registration.In April 2022, the World Health Organization put India's estimated Covid-19 toll in 2020 and 2021 at 47 lakh deaths, either directly or indirectly due to the pandemic — eight-and-a-half times the number reported officially. India's government had dismissed the WHO report for being inappropriate in methodology for a country of the size of India. But interestingly enough, the very Registrar General of India whose figures have been quoted by the government is now lending strength to the suspicion of large-scale undercounting.The contrast is stark: India dismissed international models as speculative, but its own official statistics now confirm excess deaths in line with WHO estimates. This is a matter of profound concern regarding data suppression, political motive, and the right of citizens and the international health community to the truth.Why Accurate Data Matters?Mortality data accurately gathered matters more than numbers. It affects how nations prepare for pandemics, how resources are allocated to healthcare, and how people have faith in public institutions. For India, the world health leader and manufacturer of vaccines, poor data transparency erodes credibility and undermines global cooperation in public health.Additionally, for the uncounted families many of whom were denied medical care, social acceptance, and economic ruin, the government silence is another injustice. Without official acknowledgment, they're typically not given government compensation, aid, or even recognition.The information is now out presenting how India saw a mortality spike in 2021 that is more than six times bigger than its official Covid-19 death toll. It matters little whether the cause is deliberate cover-up or systemic failure- the result is the same- the lives lost in secrecy amount to millions.Going forward, India has to build stronger health data infrastructure, conduct independent audits, and uphold transparency. The world witnessed the funeral pyres burn and now, the figures finally tell us the unthinkable truth many had suspected all along.

india underreported nearly 20 lakh excess covid deaths in 2021- was death toll really 6x higher?

Parkinson’s Disease May Have A New Environmental Trigger- Can It Be Avoided?

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When we consider health risks, we tend to look inward—diet, lifestyle, genetics but what if the biggest threats come from what’s around us? Environmental causes have increasingly been in the primary concern of health studies, with connections being found between pollution in the air and respiratory disease, industrial toxins and cancer, and now perhaps even our most idyllic, verdant neighborhoods. According to a new research, just being close to a golf course may be linked with a much greater risk of acquiring <span>Parkinson's disease</span>.

Yes, golf courses—those enormous, manicured landscapes we commonly think of as tranquility and recreational—might be more poisonous than they seem. The report, which appeared online in JAMA Network Open, sends significant concern about the long-term effects of environmental pesticide exposure on these greens, particularly for those who live nearby. Although far from definitive, the results add fuel to a growing controversy: Might our seemingly picture-perfect environments be quietly undermining brain function?

A research team headed by Brittany Krzyzanowski from the Barrow Neurological Institute investigated whether proximity to golf courses in one's neighborhood could potentially be associated with Parkinson's disease—a chronic neurological condition for which there is currently no cure. Based on a population-based case-control study comprising 419 patients with diagnosed Parkinson's and 5,113 healthy controls across different regions in the US, the researchers found something disturbing- Living in one mile of a golf course was linked with a 126% higher risk of Parkinson's disease compared to those residing more than six miles away.

Additionally, residents of areas where water services encompassed golf course areas had almost double the risk of Parkinson's versus those residing in golf-free areas. These correlations persisted even after controlling for neighborhood and demographic variables.

<h2>What Is It About Living Close to Golf Course That's a Red Flag for Your Health?</h2>

The research doesn't say golf courses cause Parkinson's directly—but it does propose a compelling hypothesis. The suspected perpetrators are pesticides, which are applied freely to keep golf courses looking nice. The chemicals, frequently airborne or leached into water, might end up being inhaled or ingested by nearby residents.

This hypothesis is not new. Past research has indicated a greater prevalence of Parkinson's in farmers, field workers, and residents of industrial areas. Some lab research has demonstrated that some pesticides and air pollutants are harmful to dopaminergic neurons, the very same cells that in Parkinson's disease.

The new evidence supports the hypothesis that long-term, low-dose exposure to neurotoxic chemicals—particularly by air and water—may play a causative role in causing the illness. But experts caution against overinterpretation.

Not everyone in the scientific community is convinced. Parkinson’s UK, a leading non-profit that supports neurological research, has expressed skepticism about the study's conclusions. Katherine Fletcher, a lead researcher with the organization, notes that while many studies have examined links between pesticide exposure and Parkinson’s, the evidence remains inconclusive.

"Effects have been inconsistent, but in general point toward pesticide exposure possibly elevating risk," Fletcher replies. "The evidence, though, is not as strong to conclude that exposure to pesticides is directly causing Parkinson's."

David Dexter, another Parkinson's UK expert, questions methodology. The study didn't check for true contamination of air or water around the golf courses. Nor did it take into account other possible sources of pollution, such as traffic emissions, that might have an effect on neurological health.

<h2>Why it is Important to Rethink Where We Live?</h2>

What's most unnerving is the way seemingly wholesome, affluent neighborhoods might harbor hidden health threats. Environmental exposure and disease clusters aren't new. But in contrast to industrial complexes, golf courses are frequently situated in upscale areas, promoted as serene and picturesque.

This paradox makes the new study more intriguing—and more contentious. Although it doesn't have answers, it raises an immediate question: Are we reconsidering the safety of our environment?

<h2>Can This Risk of Parkinson's Be Avoided?</h2>

For now, there’s no need to panic or sell your home next to the 18th hole. The findings call for further investigation, not alarm. Krzyzanowski and her team argue that public health policies aimed at reducing pesticide use on golf courses could be a step in the right direction. This could include:

<ul><li>Switching to eco-friendly turf management practices</li><li>Enforcing stricter groundwater monitoring regulations</li><li>Increasing transparency around chemical use in residential areas</li></ul>

Finally, until more conclusive studies, prevention is paramount. If you're near a golf course—or anywhere with intensive pesticide application—it may be a good idea to take note of local water quality summaries and air quality indices.

This research is not the last word on Parkinson's and golf courses—but it begins an essential dialogue. As we swim through the rising tide of diseases caused by the environment, it's more and more apparent that health is not solely the result of genes and behaviors. It's also strongly connected to place.

parkinson's disease

golf courses pesticide risk

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living near golf courses health risk

When we consider health risks, we tend to look inward—diet, lifestyle, genetics but what if the biggest threats come from what’s around us? Environmental causes have increasingly been in the primary concern of health studies, with connections being found between pollution in the air and respiratory disease, industrial toxins and cancer, and now perhaps even our most idyllic, verdant neighborhoods. According to a new research, just being close to a golf course may be linked with a much greater risk of acquiring Parkinson's disease.Yes, golf courses—those enormous, manicured landscapes we commonly think of as tranquility and recreational—might be more poisonous than they seem. The report, which appeared online in JAMA Network Open, sends significant concern about the long-term effects of environmental pesticide exposure on these greens, particularly for those who live nearby. Although far from definitive, the results add fuel to a growing controversy: Might our seemingly picture-perfect environments be quietly undermining brain function?A research team headed by Brittany Krzyzanowski from the Barrow Neurological Institute investigated whether proximity to golf courses in one's neighborhood could potentially be associated with Parkinson's disease—a chronic neurological condition for which there is currently no cure. Based on a population-based case-control study comprising 419 patients with diagnosed Parkinson's and 5,113 healthy controls across different regions in the US, the researchers found something disturbing- Living in one mile of a golf course was linked with a 126% higher risk of Parkinson's disease compared to those residing more than six miles away.Additionally, residents of areas where water services encompassed golf course areas had almost double the risk of Parkinson's versus those residing in golf-free areas. These correlations persisted even after controlling for neighborhood and demographic variables.What Is It About Living Close to Golf Course That's a Red Flag for Your Health?The research doesn't say golf courses cause Parkinson's directly—but it does propose a compelling hypothesis. The suspected perpetrators are pesticides, which are applied freely to keep golf courses looking nice. The chemicals, frequently airborne or leached into water, might end up being inhaled or ingested by nearby residents.This hypothesis is not new. Past research has indicated a greater prevalence of Parkinson's in farmers, field workers, and residents of industrial areas. Some lab research has demonstrated that some pesticides and air pollutants are harmful to dopaminergic neurons, the very same cells that in Parkinson's disease.The new evidence supports the hypothesis that long-term, low-dose exposure to neurotoxic chemicals—particularly by air and water—may play a causative role in causing the illness. But experts caution against overinterpretation.Not everyone in the scientific community is convinced. Parkinson’s UK, a leading non-profit that supports neurological research, has expressed skepticism about the study's conclusions. Katherine Fletcher, a lead researcher with the organization, notes that while many studies have examined links between pesticide exposure and Parkinson’s, the evidence remains inconclusive."Effects have been inconsistent, but in general point toward pesticide exposure possibly elevating risk," Fletcher replies. "The evidence, though, is not as strong to conclude that exposure to pesticides is directly causing Parkinson's."David Dexter, another Parkinson's UK expert, questions methodology. The study didn't check for true contamination of air or water around the golf courses. Nor did it take into account other possible sources of pollution, such as traffic emissions, that might have an effect on neurological health.Why it is Important to Rethink Where We Live?What's most unnerving is the way seemingly wholesome, affluent neighborhoods might harbor hidden health threats. Environmental exposure and disease clusters aren't new. But in contrast to industrial complexes, golf courses are frequently situated in upscale areas, promoted as serene and picturesque.This paradox makes the new study more intriguing—and more contentious. Although it doesn't have answers, it raises an immediate question: Are we reconsidering the safety of our environment?Can This Risk of Parkinson's Be Avoided?For now, there’s no need to panic or sell your home next to the 18th hole. The findings call for further investigation, not alarm. Krzyzanowski and her team argue that public health policies aimed at reducing pesticide use on golf courses could be a step in the right direction. This could include:Switching to eco-friendly turf management practicesEnforcing stricter groundwater monitoring regulationsIncreasing transparency around chemical use in residential areasFinally, until more conclusive studies, prevention is paramount. If you're near a golf course—or anywhere with intensive pesticide application—it may be a good idea to take note of local water quality summaries and air quality indices.This research is not the last word on Parkinson's and golf courses—but it begins an essential dialogue. As we swim through the rising tide of diseases caused by the environment, it's more and more apparent that health is not solely the result of genes and behaviors. It's also strongly connected to place.

parkinson’s disease may have a new environmental trigger- can it be avoided?

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In 2020, COVID-19 redefined global health infrastructure, travel norms and daily habits. Today, even though most of the world is back to business as usual, SARS-CoV-2, the virus that triggered a global pandemic still remains silently persistent. With new data emerging in 2025, it's obvious that even if the severity of the virus had reduced for most, its mutation keeps impacting populations in new and complex ways.

So, what is COVID in 2025 like? From nuanced changes in patterns of symptoms to news on vaccine immunity and AI-driven virus forecasting, here's a closer look at the latest direction of COVID and its continued influence.

While hospitalizations and COVID-19 deaths have significantly slowed from pandemic highs, the virus is hardly gone. In Australia alone, there were 58,000 cases of COVID so far in 2025, though experts say the real numbers are much greater, given decreasing testing and underreporting.

Sentinel surveillance statistics by FluCan, a network of 14 hospitals, reported 781 hospitalizations due to COVID complication in the first quarter of 2025 alone. Another 289 deaths due to respiratory infections caused by COVID happened in the first two months of the year. These statistics point out that, although COVID seems less formidable now, it is still a critical healthcare issue for some sections of the population.

<h2>Who Is Still at Risk of Severe COVID?</h2>

Currently, the vast majority of individuals who develop COVID have a mild, self-limiting illness. Nonetheless, the following groups are still at risk:

<ul><li>Older adults, especially those over the age of 70</li><li>Immunocompromised persons, including cancer patients</li><li>Individuals with chronic disease, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease</li><li>Socially disadvantaged populations, including those experiencing homelessness</li></ul>

Social disparities persist to influence health outcomes. In the UK, residents of the most deprived neighborhoods are twice as likely to be admitted to hospital with infectious diseases as those in better-off neighborhoods.

The typical COVID symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat, and shortness of breath — remain among the most frequently reported. Yet, newer strains have brought back some distinct symptom trends:

Early in the pandemic, anosmia, or the acute loss of taste or smell, was one of COVID's defining symptoms. The symptom was less frequent with Omicron, but a recent report from a French study indicates a return of anosmia in infections involving the JN.1 variant.

Anosmia is now more variant-specific, so it is a key symptom to monitor for new variants.

One of the key distinguishing factors between COVID and other respiratory diseases such as pneumonia or the flu is the lingering of symptoms, a condition now commonly known as Long COVID.

Scientists at the University of Texas matched patient data between COVID, influenza, and pneumonia. The analysis concluded that symptoms of COVID lasted longer and differed in intensity and nature. Brain fog, breathlessness, and fatigue were the most likely of the symptoms to linger months post-infection. Of interest, these post-viral symptoms appeared more frequently among the unvaccinated. 

<h2>How Long Does COVID Last in 2025?</h2>

For the majority of healthy patients with mild to moderate illness, COVID symptoms disappear in 7 to 10 days. Individuals can, however, be infectious from 48 hours prior to symptom onset until around 10 days after infection.

Notably, symptom duration and recovery vary depending on various factors:

Infection severity: Severe infections may have weeks- or months-long symptoms

Vaccination status: Those who are vaccinated tend to recover more quickly and experience fewer ongoing symptoms

Past history of infection: Future infections are shorter and less symptomatic

A UK study of 5,000 healthcare workers found that fatigue fell progressively with each reinfection — 17.3% after the first, 12.8% after the second, and only 10.8% after the third.

<h2>Why Testing Still Matters Even in 2025?</h2>

COVID testing continues to be an important tool, particularly in symptomatic people, those with recent contact, or who are high-risk groups. Rapid antigen tests (RATs) are easily accessible, yet a negative RAT is not necessarily conclusive of non-infection — especially in the early phase.

Confirmatory PCR testing is still the gold standard for reliable detection and is advised in individuals who are looking for early medical intervention, particularly in the immunocompromised.

While isolation is no longer required in most areas, public health recommendations include staying home when sick and wearing a well-fitting mask when out in public.

<h2>Is Vaccination Still The Most Effective Shield?</h2>

COVID vaccines remain effective against severe illness and symptomatic infection. Recent European data (awaiting peer review) indicate that vaccines were 66% effective at preventing symptomatic COVID this winter.

Adults 75 and older: Boosters every 6 months

High-risk adults (18+): Eligible for a booster every 6 months

A wide-ranging overview of more than 4,300 studies determined that fully vaccinated individuals were 27% less likely to develop long COVID than unvaccinated individuals.

As SARS-CoV-2 evolves through mutations, keeping vaccines effective is a moving target. Come forward EVE-Vax, a sophisticated AI system that computer-generates viral proteins that may be able to bypass immune defenses.

Unlike other approaches that respond to current variants, EVE-Vax anticipates ahead of time how the virus could change. By modeling possible future mutations, this technology could transform the way vaccines and treatments are designed — not only for COVID but for other fast-changing viruses such as influenza and HIV.

Though the immediate global crisis is over, COVID-19 in 2025 is an evolving public health concern. While the majority of cases are mild, the virus still presents severe threats to at-risk populations, and long-term complications are increasingly understood.

Public health measures now need to walk a tightrope between caution and flexibility — incorporating technological innovation such as AI modeling and continuing global vaccination programs to pre-empt future surges. The virus has evolved, our response must also evolve.

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In 2020, COVID-19 redefined global health infrastructure, travel norms and daily habits. Today, even though most of the world is back to business as usual, SARS-CoV-2, the virus that triggered a global pandemic still remains silently persistent. With new data emerging in 2025, it's obvious that even if the severity of the virus had reduced for most, its mutation keeps impacting populations in new and complex ways.So, what is COVID in 2025 like? From nuanced changes in patterns of symptoms to news on vaccine immunity and AI-driven virus forecasting, here's a closer look at the latest direction of COVID and its continued influence.While hospitalizations and COVID-19 deaths have significantly slowed from pandemic highs, the virus is hardly gone. In Australia alone, there were 58,000 cases of COVID so far in 2025, though experts say the real numbers are much greater, given decreasing testing and underreporting.Sentinel surveillance statistics by FluCan, a network of 14 hospitals, reported 781 hospitalizations due to COVID complication in the first quarter of 2025 alone. Another 289 deaths due to respiratory infections caused by COVID happened in the first two months of the year. These statistics point out that, although COVID seems less formidable now, it is still a critical healthcare issue for some sections of the population.Who Is Still at Risk of Severe COVID?Currently, the vast majority of individuals who develop COVID have a mild, self-limiting illness. Nonetheless, the following groups are still at risk:Older adults, especially those over the age of 70Immunocompromised persons, including cancer patientsIndividuals with chronic disease, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseaseSocially disadvantaged populations, including those experiencing homelessnessSocial disparities persist to influence health outcomes. In the UK, residents of the most deprived neighborhoods are twice as likely to be admitted to hospital with infectious diseases as those in better-off neighborhoods.Unique Symptoms of New COVIDThe typical COVID symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat, and shortness of breath — remain among the most frequently reported. Yet, newer strains have brought back some distinct symptom trends:Early in the pandemic, anosmia, or the acute loss of taste or smell, was one of COVID's defining symptoms. The symptom was less frequent with Omicron, but a recent report from a French study indicates a return of anosmia in infections involving the JN.1 variant.Anosmia is now more variant-specific, so it is a key symptom to monitor for new variants.One of the key distinguishing factors between COVID and other respiratory diseases such as pneumonia or the flu is the lingering of symptoms, a condition now commonly known as Long COVID.Scientists at the University of Texas matched patient data between COVID, influenza, and pneumonia. The analysis concluded that symptoms of COVID lasted longer and differed in intensity and nature. Brain fog, breathlessness, and fatigue were the most likely of the symptoms to linger months post-infection. Of interest, these post-viral symptoms appeared more frequently among the unvaccinated. How Long Does COVID Last in 2025?For the majority of healthy patients with mild to moderate illness, COVID symptoms disappear in 7 to 10 days. Individuals can, however, be infectious from 48 hours prior to symptom onset until around 10 days after infection.Notably, symptom duration and recovery vary depending on various factors:Infection severity: Severe infections may have weeks- or months-long symptomsVaccination status: Those who are vaccinated tend to recover more quickly and experience fewer ongoing symptomsPast history of infection: Future infections are shorter and less symptomaticA UK study of 5,000 healthcare workers found that fatigue fell progressively with each reinfection — 17.3% after the first, 12.8% after the second, and only 10.8% after the third.Why Testing Still Matters Even in 2025?COVID testing continues to be an important tool, particularly in symptomatic people, those with recent contact, or who are high-risk groups. Rapid antigen tests (RATs) are easily accessible, yet a negative RAT is not necessarily conclusive of non-infection — especially in the early phase.Confirmatory PCR testing is still the gold standard for reliable detection and is advised in individuals who are looking for early medical intervention, particularly in the immunocompromised.While isolation is no longer required in most areas, public health recommendations include staying home when sick and wearing a well-fitting mask when out in public.Is Vaccination Still The Most Effective Shield?COVID vaccines remain effective against severe illness and symptomatic infection. Recent European data (awaiting peer review) indicate that vaccines were 66% effective at preventing symptomatic COVID this winter.2025 vaccination recommendations are:Adults 65–74: Boosters every 12 monthsAdults 75 and older: Boosters every 6 monthsHigh-risk adults (18+): Eligible for a booster every 6 monthsA wide-ranging overview of more than 4,300 studies determined that fully vaccinated individuals were 27% less likely to develop long COVID than unvaccinated individuals.AI in COVID TestingAs SARS-CoV-2 evolves through mutations, keeping vaccines effective is a moving target. Come forward EVE-Vax, a sophisticated AI system that computer-generates viral proteins that may be able to bypass immune defenses.Unlike other approaches that respond to current variants, EVE-Vax anticipates ahead of time how the virus could change. By modeling possible future mutations, this technology could transform the way vaccines and treatments are designed — not only for COVID but for other fast-changing viruses such as influenza and HIV.Is COVID in 2025 Different?Though the immediate global crisis is over, COVID-19 in 2025 is an evolving public health concern. While the majority of cases are mild, the virus still presents severe threats to at-risk populations, and long-term complications are increasingly understood.Public health measures now need to walk a tightrope between caution and flexibility — incorporating technological innovation such as AI modeling and continuing global vaccination programs to pre-empt future surges. The virus has evolved, our response must also evolve.

Riya Baibhawi

US CDC Advises Elderly To Avoid Chikungunya Vaccines Following Deaths

Nutrition

Listeria Outbreak In US Linked To Ready-To-Eat Food Products

listeria outbreak in us linked to ready-to-eat food products

Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an advisory urging American travellers over the age of 60 years to avoid the <span>Chikungunya vaccine</span>, Valneva's '<span>Ixchiq</span>'. Health authorities had earlier asked the elderly to take these shots in the wake of <span>Chikungunya</span> outbreaks in the islands of the Indian Ocean. However, last week, they stated 17 serious adverse events, including two deaths, which were reported in recipients of the vaccine IXCHIQ over the age of 60 worldwide, and asked the elderly to refrain from using the vaccines. 

"CDC and FDA recently investigated five hospitalisations for cardiac or neurologic events following vaccination with IXCHIQ among older people. We are also aware of additional reports of serious adverse events among people aged 62 to 89 years following the use of IXCHIQ in other countries. CDC and FDA advise the live-attenuated vaccine should not be used among people 60 years and older until these additional reports are further investigated," the CDC mentioned on their website.

<h2>Chikungunya Surge In Indian Ocean Islands</h2>

France's Departments of La Reunion and Mayotte have reported chikungunya outbreaks. La Reunion has reported over 47,000 cases and 12 associated deaths as of May 4 this year. Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that the cases are expected to rise in the region. In the wake of the same, health authorities have asked travellers and pregnant women to avoid or reconsider travelling to those regions. 

<h2>What Is Chikungunya?</h2>Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the chikungunya virus. Symptoms of the disease include fever and joint pain. The risk of a person spreading the virus is highest during the first week of illness. The European Union's health regulator is currently reviewing Valneva's chikungunya vaccine after reports of serious adverse events, including two deaths globally. The European Medicines Agency's safety committee has temporarily suspended the use of the vaccine-Ixchiq, in adults aged 65 years and above.

<h2>Chikungunya Vaccine Under Investigation</h2>Ixchiq is the first preventive vaccine against the chikungunya virus authorised in Europe and the US. While the adverse effects of this jab is still not fully revealed, the deaths of two adults aged 62 and 89 years have raised alarm. However, the exact link between the vaccine and the death is being determined by the health officials. At present, the French government has suspended the use of the vaccine pending investigation after adverse events were reported as well. Meanwhile, the US advisors have recommended the second chikungunya vaccine, Bavarian Nordic's Vimkunya, to those above 12 years of age. 

chikungunya

ixchiq

Chikungunya Vaccine

CDC on Chikungunya vaccines

Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an advisory urging American travellers over the age of 60 years to avoid the Chikungunya vaccine, Valneva's 'Ixchiq'. Health authorities had earlier asked the elderly to take these shots in the wake of Chikungunya outbreaks in the islands of the Indian Ocean. However, last week, they stated 17 serious adverse events, including two deaths, which were reported in recipients of the vaccine IXCHIQ over the age of 60 worldwide, and asked the elderly to refrain from using the vaccines. "CDC and FDA recently investigated five hospitalisations for cardiac or neurologic events following vaccination with IXCHIQ among older people. We are also aware of additional reports of serious adverse events among people aged 62 to 89 years following the use of IXCHIQ in other countries. CDC and FDA advise the live-attenuated vaccine should not be used among people 60 years and older until these additional reports are further investigated," the CDC mentioned on their website.Chikungunya Surge In Indian Ocean IslandsFrance's Departments of La Reunion and Mayotte have reported chikungunya outbreaks. La Reunion has reported over 47,000 cases and 12 associated deaths as of May 4 this year. Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that the cases are expected to rise in the region. In the wake of the same, health authorities have asked travellers and pregnant women to avoid or reconsider travelling to those regions. What Is Chikungunya?Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the chikungunya virus. Symptoms of the disease include fever and joint pain. The risk of a person spreading the virus is highest during the first week of illness. The European Union's health regulator is currently reviewing Valneva's chikungunya vaccine after reports of serious adverse events, including two deaths globally. The European Medicines Agency's safety committee has temporarily suspended the use of the vaccine-Ixchiq, in adults aged 65 years and above.Chikungunya Vaccine Under InvestigationIxchiq is the first preventive vaccine against the chikungunya virus authorised in Europe and the US. While the adverse effects of this jab is still not fully revealed, the deaths of two adults aged 62 and 89 years have raised alarm. However, the exact link between the vaccine and the death is being determined by the health officials. At present, the French government has suspended the use of the vaccine pending investigation after adverse events were reported as well. Meanwhile, the US advisors have recommended the second chikungunya vaccine, Bavarian Nordic's Vimkunya, to those above 12 years of age. 

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