Introduction:
It’s been two years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. Let’s take a reflective journey through time, comparing the early days of the pandemic with the current state of affairs.
1. Symptoms: Then and Now
Then (Early Days):
- Brain fog, loss of taste and smell, and exhaustion were common symptoms.
- Vague and odd manifestations puzzled clinicians.
Now (Present):
- JN.1 variant shares symptoms with earlier variants: sore throat, fatigue, headache, and cough.
- Diarrhea and headaches are emerging as early signs.
- Less loss of smell with variants related to Omicron.
- Difficulty distinguishing COVID-19 from influenza clinically due to similar symptoms.
2. Variants: A Shifting Landscape
Alpha, Delta, and Omicron:
- Omicron cases appear milder than previous variants.
- Prior immune status influences symptoms.
- Hospitalizations and deaths are lower compared to January 2023.
3. Global Impact: Then and Now
Then (Early Days):
- Overwhelmed hospitals, fear, and uncertainty.
- Lockdowns, travel restrictions, and economic turmoil.
Now (Present):
- Adaptation to living with the virus.
- Vaccination campaigns, boosters, and treatment advancements.
- Balancing risks while resuming daily life.
Conclusion:
COVID-19 has transformed our world. As we navigate this ongoing journey, let’s remain vigilant, compassionate, and resilient. Together, we’ll shape a healthier future. 🌏🌱
Myra is a committed, caring and friendly Physiotherapist with a great passion for helping people of all ages. She has previous experience in supporting a variety of patients ranging from children suffering from development problems to adults and the elderly affected by and recovering from injuries and movement disorders. She has excellent communication skills, both written and oral, and she enjoys working with a variety of different people.
