Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, much has been learned about the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the COVID-19 disease it causes. For example, we now know the most prominent route of disease spread is indoor airborne transmission through large and small droplets. While much has been learned, we still do not understand why disease rates occasionally rise and fall nearly simultaneously around the world.
Behavioral actions, such as isolation, social distancing, and mask-wearing, as well as vaccinations, have proven to be effective in mitigating transmission. We see that COVID case rates fluctuate dramatically around the globe, affected by the community and regional mitigating actions described above as well as by movement of people through immigration, migration, and visitation. We struggle with challenges brought on by the nonconformity that seems to be related to the complex environment we live in today; however, there is evidence that Mother Nature is doing her part to protect us.