IDSA Statement on COVID-19 Pandemic in the U.S.
What was once unfathomable ― one million people dying from COVID-19 ― is a reality that is difficult to comprehend. Infectious diseases experts throughout the nation mourn the immense loss of life.
It is important to acknowledge that while everyone in America has experienced loss due to the pandemic, COVID-19 has had a disproportionate effect on communities of color and worsened existing health inequities. As our nation continues to grapple with the pandemic, eliminating these gaps in care and promoting a more equitable society must be prioritized.
Amidst the devastating loss, lifesaving vaccines and treatments emerged. Vaccination remains the best protection against severe disease and hospitalization, and access to effective treatments is improving across the country. Wearing a well-fitting mask remains the simplest and most effective intervention you can use to protect both yourself and vulnerable loved ones.
COVID-19 is not over. Hundreds of people continue to die every day and thousands experience the lingering effects of long COVID.
New viruses will emerge that will threaten to become global pandemics. Policymakers and the academic and health care communities must bolster our ability to respond to these inevitable future public health threats, or we risk experiencing the unfathomable again. The safety and security of the American people require a well-funded public health, biomedical and health care infrastructure and an infectious diseases and bio-preparedness workforce capable of meeting future challenges.
One million deaths is a tragedy. One million people who were family members and friends. Their lives will never be forgotten.
– Daniel P. McQuillen, MD, FIDSA – President, Infectious Diseases Society of America
About IDSA
The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) is a community of over 12,000 physicians, scientists, and public health experts who specialize in infectious diseases. Its purpose is to improve the health of individuals, communities, and society by promoting excellence in patient care, education, research, public health, and prevention relating to infectious diseases. Learn more at https://www.idsociety.org/.