Recent Trends and Possible Future Trajectory of COVID-19

Originating as an outbreak in Wuhan, China, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread to several countries. It later became a global health crisis, leading to millions of deaths, overwhelming healthcare systems, and prompting widespread lockdowns. The socioeconomic repercussions were severe, disrupting global economies, education systems, and profoundly affecting mental health. Responding to this crisis, the global scientific community embarked on an effort to understand the transmission dynamics of the virus and develop effective treatments and vaccines. This chapter explores these efforts, analyzing evolving epidemiological patterns, the emergence of new viral variants, and the interplay between vaccination efforts and disease burden. The chapter also delves into the long-term health implications of COVID-19 and examines the wider societal repercussions. Further, this chapter discusses the relevance of global preparedness for future pandemics, drawing on lessons learned to inform the development of robust surveillance systems, early warning mechanisms, and resilient public health infrastructure.