Weekly Covid-19 fatalities in the United States exceed 300.
In the United States, roughly five years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, weekly fatalities from the virus continue, with an average of 350 deaths reported each week in April 2025, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Although this figure has decreased significantly from a peak of 25,974 deaths in January 2021, it underscores that COVID-19 remains a threat, particularly for high-risk individuals.
Public health experts suggest that the ongoing deaths are a result of several factors, including low vaccination rates, waning immunity, and limited access to treatments. As of late April 2025, only 23% of adults aged 18 and older had received the updated COVID-19 vaccine for the 2024-2025 season, according to CDC data. Among children, the number is even lower, with just 13% receiving the updated vaccine over the same period.
Dr. Gregory Poland, a renowned vaccinologist, notes that this low vaccine uptake contributes to the number of weekly COVID deaths. For those who have been vaccinated, some may not develop a sufficient immune response due to genetic factors or ongoing immunocompromised conditions. Additionally, immunity from COVID-19 vaccines tends to wane over time, increasing the likelihood of infection.
Dr. Tony Moody, a professor at Duke University Medical Center, adds that another reason for continued deaths is inadequate use of available treatments. Existing antiviral treatments, such as molnupiravir and Paxlovid, must be administered within five days of COVID symptoms appearing, with dosing requirements varying by medication. However, Moody notes that some infected individuals may not be seeking medical care until symptoms become severe, while others may not be undergoing testing at all, missing COVID diagnoses altogether.
Global and US SARS-CoV-2 virus activity has increased since early 2025, which may impact future vaccination and treatment strategies. The FDA has recommended an updated monovalent vaccine targeting the dominant LP.8.1 strain for the upcoming season to ensure vaccines are better matched to the circulating strain for improved protection.
In conclusion, COVID-19 remains a threat, particularly for high-risk individuals, with low vaccination rates, waning immunity, and limited access to treatments contributing to ongoing fatalities. Public health experts advocate for improved vaccine uptake, the use of existing treatments, and ongoing monitoring and adaptation to ensure treatments and vaccines reach all age groups effectively.
- In the contemporary health-and-wellness landscape, concerns about chronic diseases, such as COVID-19, are significantly affecting mental health.
- The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of science in understanding and combating medical-conditions like the virus.
- Adequate fitness-and-exercise, along with adhering to recommended vaccination schedules, is believed to enhance the body's resistance to chronic diseases, including COVID-19.
- With cases of COVID-19 surging again, some experts are considering alternatives like CBD for its potential role in supporting the immune system and mental health.
