On May 5, the World Health Organization (WHO) declares the end of COVID-19 health emergency after three years.

WHO officials explained that although COVID-19 continues to spread and evolve, its threat at a global level is now at a much lower level of concern. They stressed that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over—just the emergency phase is.

WHO data shows there have been more than 765 million confirmed COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic, with nearly 7 million resulting in death. From a global perspective, Europe has the most confirmed cases, but the United States has reported the most deaths. In fact, 1 in 6 COVID-19 deaths have occurred in the United States.

What’s Next with the End of Covid-19 Health Emergency?

The removal of the WHO’s designation is a significant milestone, although it doesn’t impact the United States’ public health emergency. The declaration is symbolic of the pandemic’s end at a global level. However, the WHO International Health Regulations Emergency Committee members said they wouldn’t hesitate to convene another meeting and declare a global health emergency again for COVID-19 if there is a significant rise in cases or deaths. The reality is that COVID-19 still spreads across the nation and the globe.

Employers should continue to monitor the situation closely and encourage the use of public health measures and tools, such as vaccines and boosters. TIG Advisors will keep you apprised of notable pandemic changes. Contact TIG Advisors today.

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