Dr Om Patil

Spine Surgeon in Mumbai

As of May 2025, COVID-19 has transitioned into an endemic phase globally. While the acute pandemic has subsided, the virus continues to pose challenges due to emerging variants and fluctuating immunity levels.

🦠 Emerging Variants and Global Surveillance

Two new variants, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, have been identified in India through wastewater surveillance. NB.1.8.1 was detected in Tamil Nadu in April, and LF.7 in Gujarat in May. These variants are under monitoring for potential increased transmissibility and immune evasion. NB.1.8.1 has also been linked to recent surges in China and has been detected among international travelers arriving in the U.S. 

Despite these developments, health authorities, including the WHO, assess the current global public health risk from these variants as low. However, continued surveillance and adherence to preventive measures remain crucial.

🧬 Vaccination Strategies and Updates

In response to the evolving virus, the FDA is considering limiting future COVID-19 booster recommendations to seniors and individuals at higher risk of complications. This approach aims to tailor vaccination strategies based on risk profiles and emerging data on vaccine efficacy. 

Additionally, new vaccines like Zapomeran (brand name Kostaive), a self-amplifying mRNA-based vaccine, have been approved in Japan and the European Union. These vaccines are designed to enhance immune responses and adapt to circulating variants. 

🌍 Global Health Initiatives

The World Health Assembly adopted the first-ever Pandemic Agreement, aiming to strengthen global collaboration and preparedness for future health emergencies. This agreement emphasizes equitable access to medical countermeasures and improved surveillance systems. 

Furthermore, the Assembly passed a resolution recognizing rare diseases as a global health priority, urging countries to integrate rare disease care into national health planning and universal health coverage frameworks. 

🧠 Living with COVID-19: The New Normal

As COVID-19 becomes endemic, public health experts stress the importance of sustained preventive practices. These include mask-wearing in crowded places, maintaining hand hygiene, and staying updated with vaccinations. The concept of “immunity debt,” resulting from reduced exposure to pathogens during lockdowns, highlights the need for continued vigilance against not only COVID-19 but other infectious diseases as well. 

In summary, while the global situation has improved, the emergence of new variants and the transition to endemicity require ongoing attention, adaptation of public health strategies, and international cooperation to manage COVID-19 effectively.

Dr Om Patil is a renowned orthopedic spine surgeon in Mumbai located in Dadar area and Chembur #spinewala