In this evocative New York Times article from February 2025, the author reflects on the enduring aftershocks of COVID-19, noting that its deadliest effects have only fully emerged five years later. Weaving personal recollections of treating patients during the pandemic with historical insights, the piece draws parallels between early heroic responses to disease and the systematic public health transformations that followed. The narrative also examines how our collective trauma has reshaped public health policy, citing a time when the rallying cry was “never again” and now questioning, “never what?”—a poignant reminder of a nation grappling with irreversible changes, especially under the looming influence of past administrations.

Key Points:

• The article recounts the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing that its most devastating impacts became apparent five years later.
• The author shares personal experiences from working in a hospital during the crisis and highlights the lasting emotional scars of the pandemic.
• A comparison is made with historical public health responses, referring to John M. Barry’s book, The Great Influenza, which underscores the evolution from individual heroism to systematic public health interventions.
• The transformation of public health policy is examined, noting that while early efforts were reactive, modern approaches rely on structured surveillance, mandates, and vetted information.
• The narrative raises a critical question about the future of public health with the line, “never what?”, underscoring ongoing uncertainties amid shifting political landscapes.
  Link to Article