Despite recent drop in COVID-19 cases, experts continue to prepare for future variants

ORLANDO, Fla. — Data released by federal health officials Monday suggests COVID-19 hospitalizations are dropping, but experts say the pandemic is still far from over.

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Health experts say vaccinations and previous infections have resulted in a higher COVID-19 immunity nationwide.

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Now, they’re looking for certain benchmarks to help move the country towards a post-pandemic phase.

Health experts from Johns Hopkins University say COVID-19 cases must continue dropping, and they’re looking for a sustained decline in transmission rates.

Experts say getting kids under the age of five vaccinated is another key factor. Pfizer is currently collecting information to submit to the Food and Drug Administration for its lower dose vaccine for children.

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The same experts say rapid COVID testing will still be vital.

Lastly, doctors say their goal is to limit widespread closures during surges.

Senior Scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security Crystal Watson says seasonal surges may still occur.

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“But once we start to see that be even more disconnected from hospitalizations and deaths, that is when we can start to kind of take a deep breath,” Watson said.

Health experts say there are efforts underway now to create a vaccine that would protect against multiple variants.

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