No 2020-Like Repeat Of Covid-19, Influenza A Bigger Risk: Ex-WHO Scientist Soumya Swaminathan

By Admin

02 Jun, 2025

As concerns resurface about potential new waves of Covid-19, former Chief Scientist of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, has reassured the public that a repeat of the catastrophic 2020 or 2021 outbreaks is highly unlikely. Speaking exclusively to News18, the infectious disease expert emphasized that while periodic surges of the virus may continue, they are expected to be manageable and of low severity.

“Absolutely no need to panic now,” Swaminathan said, dispelling fears of another devastating health crisis. She explained that Covid-19 has now become part of the group of respiratory viruses that circulate seasonally among humans, much like the common cold or the flu. “COVID or SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus, is another respiratory virus, like the many others that are circulating amongst us human beings in the world today,” she noted. “It has been around for five years now. It’s, of course, constantly mutating and changing, like other viruses.”

Periodic Surges Are Normal

Swaminathan highlighted that minor spikes in Covid-19 infections every 6–8 months are expected and should not alarm the public. These surges are a normal part of the virus’s life cycle and reflect its evolving interaction with the human immune system. She emphasized that such waves are far less severe now due to improved immunity in the population, widespread vaccination, and better clinical management.

Influenza Is the Bigger Risk

Interestingly, Swaminathan pointed out that influenza, not Covid-19, continues to claim more lives each year both in India and around the world. Despite the disproportionate media attention Covid-19 receives, influenza remains a major health concern and deserves greater focus in terms of prevention and awareness.

No Delta-Like Wave Ahead

Addressing the possibility of another major outbreak, similar to the deadly Delta wave, she clarified, “We will not see the repeat of 2020 or 2021. At that time, human beings had never seen this virus before.” The global population has since developed significant immunity, and the virus has become less severe for the majority.

Conclusion: Stay Informed, Not Alarmed

The message from Dr. Soumya Swaminathan is clear: while Covid-19 hasn’t disappeared, it is no longer the threat it once was. The public should remain informed, continue basic precautions when needed, and shift their health concerns to include other respiratory illnesses like influenza, which can be equally or more dangerous.