The COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging for the healthcare system and communities around the world. But, as a result of vigilance and Covid-19 support, our health system has been able to effectively respond to this public health emergency. The CDC’s Covid-19 resources continue to help health professionals, patients and the public stay informed about the latest research and guidelines on how to best protect against the virus.
Since being declared a global pandemic in March of this year, the virus has spread to 223 countries and territories, resulting in more than 593 million cases and 6 million deaths reported globally. Viruses such as the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) in 2002, H1N1 influenza in 2009, and the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in 2012, have caused similar widespread epidemics with devastating impact.
COVID-19 is a viral infection with symptoms involving the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. The virus is highly contagious and can be passed from person to person by close contact through sneezing or coughing.
The virus is particularly dangerous for people with compromised immune systems, which are more susceptible to severe and potentially life-threatening complications of the disease. Older adults, who are at greater risk of developing these complications, can be especially impacted by the virus. These resources from the National Institute on Aging, NIH, and other federal agencies can help older adults locate COVID-19 testing, vaccines, care and services, and how to participate in research on the disease.
Vaccination is the cornerstone of the government’s strategy to curb the spread of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Covid-19 Vaccination Program aims to make the bivalent vaccine available for all those who may need it. The vaccine is safe for the general population, including children and adolescents as well as those with compromised immune systems.
In addition to expanding access to the vaccine, the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Covid-19 Food Distribution Networks are supporting communities in need with food and supplies. The USDA’s online resource hub can be searched by state and category to find a food bank near you.
The USDA is also helping families navigate the financial impact of the pandemic. The USDA’s Home Loan Guarantee Program can help homeowners who have been displaced by displacement due to the COVID-19 crisis with temporary housing assistance. The USDA’s Main Street Lending Program can keep credit flowing to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofit organizations that were in sound financial condition before the coronavirus pandemic began but have been negatively impacted by it.
Building on decades of global health leadership, USAID is continuing to show up and lead in the fight against COVID-19 and other diseases that threaten human lives worldwide. The agency is leveraging its expertise in vaccines and vaccination, global health, economic development, humanitarian relief and more to help prevent and manage this and other infectious disease outbreaks, and safeguard global health security.