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With numerous variants of COVID-19 virus still lurking across the globe, President Joe Biden shocked the world by making the claim that the pandemic was over in the US. Clearly, the statement made by the US President was not only premature, but has also exemplified the mindset of rich nations towards poorer ones. From the very outbreak of the pandemic, experts have repeatedly harped on the importance of a united effort to tame this lethal virus. It’s a pity that some bigger nations have deliberately ignored the advice given by experts, refusing to work together from the very beginning. They set their own rules to keep their citizens safe, with little regard for the fate of millions of people living outside their countries. The world has not forgotten how former US President Donald Trump tried to arm twist India for a crucial drug, despite New Delhi’s consistent decision to stand beside other nations in the hour of crisis. In this regard, the US record is poor to say the least as the country rarely reciprocates in similar manners. As a result, only one-third of the healthcare workers and older populations of the world have been fully vaccinated so far. There are still miles to go before boosting the immunity of the people across the globe as developed nations were not generous enough in helping other nations combat the danger.
Undoubtedly, it is simply irrational for President Biden to claim victory over the pandemic as very recently it was the same US administration that earmarked $ 1.6 billion to undertake the testing and vaccination programme to help the vulnerable population. Thus, the unusual hurry shown by Biden will only increase health risks of the people as US citizens will no longer be concerned about wearing masks or social distancing, which may invite further trouble as the battle against the pandemic remains unfinished. Along with the US, the rest of the world will also be in trouble as the disease can make a comeback through asymptomatic US citizens. Many observers feel that the untimely statement of the US President was nothing but a ploy to prevent further downslide of his popularity, which has been facing serious challenges for failures in the economic front.
Irrespective of Biden’s views, India should not lower its guard against COVID-19, as the danger is not over yet. After two years of relentless struggle against the deadly virus, India has somehow managed to tame the threat courtesy of an exceptionally successful vaccination programme. The steep decline of fresh Covid cases should not be allowed to rise again this festive season. So, it is still advisable to wear masks and practice social distancing as much as possible to ward off any future threats. The battle against the pandemic will not be over until the entire world population is vaccinated.