Covid-Induced Immunity-Debt Behind Global Rise In Flu Cases: Study

New Delhi: A team of UK researchers has found evidence on how "immunity debt," caused by extended periods of restrictions during Covid-19 pandemic, is causing changes in global transmission patterns of flu.

"Immunity debt" is a phenomenon where populations become more susceptible to infections after extended periods of reduced exposure. While the hypothesis was widely accepted, until now there has been little evidence to back up the theory.

The Covid pandemic led many countries around the world to implement strict public health measures like lockdowns, social distancing, mask-wearing, and travel restrictions.

While these steps were crucial and effective in controlling the spread of Covid, they led to a dramatic drop in cases of other illnesses like influenza (flu) and respiratory viruses.

However, post-Covid countries worldwide have seen a dramatic surge in cases of flu.

The researchers warned that this "immunity debt" could lead to major flu outbreaks in the years following a pandemic, as populations regain susceptibility to other viruses.