(Image source from: PTI)
The devastating second wave of Covid-19 in India between April and May 2021 is still etched in the minds of many families who mourned lost loved ones and those who fought against the Delta variant, officially named B.1.617.2. Since the third wave, which was driven by the Omicron variant and occurred from December 2021 to February 2022, India has not experienced a significant increase in Covid-19 cases. Life has mostly returned to normal after the horrific times of the pandemic. Nevertheless, the recent spike in Covid-19 cases in Southeast Asian nations like Singapore and Hong Kong has sparked new worries. Although there is no immediate cause for alarm regarding Covid-19 in India, one question persists: are we genuinely ready—both physically and mentally—to tackle another wave of this pandemic?
Dr Bharat Agrawal, a Senior Consultant in General Medicine at Apollo Hospitals in Navi Mumbai, expressed that the immunity of the population against COVID-19 is currently quite strong due to extensive vaccination efforts and natural immunity gained through previous infections. He noted, “Regarding emerging variants like JN.1, which is recognized as a very mild strain at this time, the existing immunity—whether from vaccines, natural exposure, or a combination of both—has shown effectiveness. At present, there is no evidence that a booster shot, either additional or variant-specific, is necessary. The vaccines we have received so far continue to be effective in managing infection rates and lessening the severity of symptoms in the event of reinfection.”
Nonetheless, Dr Agrawal advised caution and warned against underestimating new variants of Covid-19. Although the current landscape does not show an alarming rise in severe cases associated with the JN.1 variant, he stressed the importance of maintaining basic safety measures—such as wearing masks in crowded places, practicing good hand hygiene, and following proper respiratory practices—as appropriate and prudent in most circumstances.
Dr Raman Gangakhedkar, a prominent epidemiologist in India and a key figure during the government's daily updates in the first wave of Covid-19 in 2020, urged the public to stay calm, clarifying that there is no reason to be anxious unless there is a clear increase in hospitalizations or deaths.
Do Your Antibodies Still Guard Against New Variants?
In response to inquiries regarding whether antibodies from past Covid-19 infections maintain their protective qualities or diminish over time, Dr. Agrawal noted that it is typical for these antibodies to gradually decrease as part of the immune system's natural operation.
"Nonetheless, they do not completely disappear and still play a significant role in our immune defenses, particularly when paired with immunity from vaccinations. What we are observing now is a more extensive and complex type of protection within the population, commonly known as ‘hybrid immunity.’ This indicates that even if antibody levels have decreased, the body retains memory cells that allow for a faster and more efficient response if re-exposed to the virus.
“Regarding the current JN.1 variant, there is no indication that prior immunity has lost its effectiveness,” he stated. “In fact, previous infections and vaccinations continue to lower the chances of severe illness, hospitalization, and other complications. Thus, while immunity may not stop every new infection, it remains vital in mitigating the virus's effects.”
Are You Prepared Mentally for Covid-19?
The Covid-19 pandemic not only left physical health at risk but also took a significant toll on mental well-being. Research published in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care highlighted a noticeable increase in mental health challenges throughout India during this period, particularly affecting those in urban areas. On a global scale, the World Health Organization noted a 25% increase in cases of anxiety and depression during the initial year of the pandemic, reflecting a profound collective psychological impact.
Despite these mental health challenges arising from Covid-19, recent crises such as terror incidents and international conflicts have showcased a remarkable resilience within the Indian community. Dr. Suresh Bada Math, a Psychiatry Professor at NIMHANS, emphasizes that this resilience is particularly evident in semi-urban and rural settings, where deep spiritual convictions, family connections, and community networks significantly contribute to maintaining mental stability. He expressed, "This socio-cultural resilience, rooted in India's traditions, has effectively complemented formal mental health strategies, resulting in a uniquely effective psychosocial response to COVID-19. I believe our citizens are always prepared to face any challenge."
Antonios Kalentzis, a psychologist and member of the Political Psychology Section at the British Psychological Society, points out that although vital lessons have been learned from the COVID-19 experience, many individuals still lack psychological readiness for future pandemics or waves of infection. He highlights that numerous individuals continue to carry unresolved trauma stemming from the first outbreak, including feelings of loss, extreme fatigue, and social withdrawal, which might resurface if new restrictions or fears arise.
Kalentzis believes that while coping strategies have seen improvements, persistent stress, diminished trust in institutions, and widespread exhaustion have caused lasting psychological damage. He asserts that effective mental health preparedness is just as important as medical readiness.
"What is essential now is to focus on not only medical preparedness but also mental health readiness, which includes clear communication, community-based psychological aid, and policies that balance public health needs with emotional well-being. Without these elements in place, our collective response may skew more towards emotional fatigue instead of resilience," he stated.
