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| Scientists believe that second and subsequent waves of coronavirus outbreak may be even deadlier! |
The second wave of pandemic is defined as the rise of infections, following a decline in spread from initial cluster of cases. According to medical experts, easing restrictions and a negligence on preventive measures may eventually lead to this second wave.
The lockdown measure applied to fight against the coronavirus pandemic has slowed it to some extent. However, it has also dented the economy drastically in many countries. So, governments all over the world are under pressure to ease lockdown and restart the economy with safety protocols. But, experts fear this could start a new wave of COVID-19 cases.
The coronavirus is a highly contagious pathogen, and spreads through breath and saliva. As restrictions are lifted, more and more people come into contact, and there is very high chance that there will be a surge in the cases.
As the number of COVID-19 cases are beginning to fall in many countries, this doesn't mean that the pandemic is over. Infact, history shows us that there have been second, third and subsequent waves of surge in cases, after an initial one. Rather than just easing restrictions, this time should be utilised in increasing the capacity of primary health centres, hospitals and strengthening the public health system.
As this coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, is a new virus, there are many things yet to be known about its characteristics. Even we do not clearly know how it spreads exactly. Under these circumstances, the best measures are to maintain physical distancing, wearing masks, and washing hands regularly.
Most people make a mistake by thinking that easing restrictions is a sign that the society is safe now. But, that's not how it is. The purpose of lockdown was to slow the spread of infections, so that less people were infected. As less people get infected, there will be less cases in hospitals. When there are less cases in hospitals, then they are not overwhelmed and care can be given to all the cases.
People should realise that lockdown was imposed just to slow down the pandemic, and not to eradicate the coronavirus disease. The virus can only be eradicated once a vaccine develops and we take it. Till then, every time we step out of our home, and have other people close to our proximity, the risk of us getting infected by COVID-19 remains.
History also teaches us that second and even third waves of a pandemic can be even more deadlier. In 1918, the second wave of influenza took more lives than the first wave. H1N1 epidemic of 2009 also had a deadlier second wave. Flu pandemics in 1957 and 1968 also showed similar pattern.
But, some experts cite that the increase in cases we are witnessing currently is not a second outbreak, but rather a part of the first wave itself. They argue that a bigger outbreak, possibly the second wave, will be evident once we approach fall.
Even WHO has stated that the coronavirus disease will remain for quite some time. So, it is essential that healthcare systems around the world are strengthened and effective strategies designed to deal with these anticipated waves.
Amidst these dangers, the best way to deal with the second wave or the pandemic in general is by extensive testing, isolation of contacts, and contact tracing.
Which Countries Have Shown a Surge in Cases After Easing Restrictions?
Singapore was one of the earliest countries who were able to successfully contain the spread of coronavirus. However, cases again reappeared later on after a period of decline.
Iran eased its restrictions at around mid-April after new cases had declined. However, as of June, the cases have continued to rise. This may be due to more social interactions after the lifting of restrictions. But, local officials have attributed it to increase in testing.
Why Do Second and Subsequent Waves of Outbreak Occur?
Mostly, this may be due to economies reopening and people coming into close contact with each other. In addition, negligence on part of people to follow preventive measures may also be a factor.
Some sources believe that the virus strain may undergo mutations and become more virulent, resulting in increased cases.
How to Deal With the Second and Subsequent Waves?
To end this pandemic, vaccine is essential. Scientists are working on it and have told that this will take time. Till then, the best a citizen can do for himself and for others as well is to follow preventive measures.
Among the measures, the most essential ones are basically 3 - wearing masks, handwashing and maintaining physical distance of atleast 3 metres.
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