Five years after the first COVID-19 cases emerged, the world reflects on the pandemic's profound impact.

Experts like Sandra Ciesek and Cihan Çelik note that while infection rates have declined, vulnerable populations still face risks.

The pandemic exposed gaps in global preparedness, with experts warning that the world may now be less ready for future crises.

Long COVID remains a challenge, with many patients struggling for recognition and effective treatment.

The pandemic also highlighted the need for better collaboration between science and politics, as well as the importance of learning from past mistakes, such as isolating terminally ill patients.

As the world moves forward, the lessons of COVID-19 serve as a reminder of the need for resilience and unity in the face of global health threats.