As some states see declining COVID-19 cases and gradually reopen, infectious disease experts warn that a second wave of COVID-19 is inevitable, though the extent of the resurgence remains unclear. The "second wave" of a pandemic refers to a recurrent rise of infections following an overall decline in spread from the initial cluster of cases. Some fear that easing restrictions and public disregard for preventative measures as time passes may make the second wave of cases greater than the initial burst. Regardless of where experts stand, they agree that following public health measures will play a key role in determining the severity of the second wave. COVID-19 will be part of the foreseeable future, but the choice of whether a second wave will be an overwhelming tsunami or merely a ripple may hinge on continued masking, physical distancing, widespread testing with contact tracing, hospital preparation and vaccine development.

Source: ABC News March 18, 2023 03:13 UTC