Ann Arbor Times

March 11 marks five years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. Experts from the University of Michigan have reflected on the impact of the pandemic across various sectors, including public health, medicine, education, business, and society. They also discuss preparedness for future pandemics.

Gregory Eschenauer from the College of Pharmacy highlighted the evolving role of pharmacists during the pandemic. "As with all health care providers, the COVID-19 pandemic was a time of profound stress for pharmacists," he said. "However, it was also a time where the instrumental and diverse roles pharmacists play in the treatment and prevention of disease were clearly demonstrated."

Nancy Fleischer from the School of Public Health emphasized ongoing issues related to long COVID and social disparities. "One of the most important things we have learned is that long COVID has continued to impact the health and well-being of Michiganders even years after their initial COVID-19 illness," she noted.

Adam Lauring from Michigan Medicine discussed early responses to COVID-19 and current challenges in public health perception. "Lately, I’ve been thinking about how... there was a tremendous clinical, biomedical research and public health response to COVID," he stated.

Sue Anne Bell from the School of Nursing addressed challenges faced by nurses during the pandemic. "The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to the nursing workforce," she remarked.

Albert Shih from the College of Engineering talked about advancements in personal protective equipment (PPE). "In terms of PPE, we are better but not bulletproof prepared for the next pandemic," he commented.

Laraine Washer from Michigan Medicine reflected on lessons learned during early stages of COVID-19. "I hope we will not forget lessons learned around effective health communication," she said.

Herek Clack from Taza Aya recalled early confusion regarding transmission routes. "Like most everyone else, I recall just trying to hang on, day by day," he mentioned.

In education, Elizabeth Birr Moje from Marsal Family School discussed impacts on student learning and teacher support needs. Christina Weiland pointed out staffing shortages in early education classrooms as an ongoing challenge.

Jerry Davis from Ross School of Business observed changes in work dynamics due to remote work feasibility revealed by COVID-19 restrictions. Michael Traugott noted that political polarization affected vaccination behaviors.

These insights were compiled by experts at Michigan News and affiliated institutions.