Why are more than 300 people in the US still dying from COVID every week?

By: Dr. Kirkpatrick Williams

As of May 2025, the United States continues to experience over 300 COVID-19-related deaths each week. Several factors contribute to this ongoing mortality rate:

Emergence of New Variants

A new subvariant, NB.1.8.1, part of the Omicron lineage JN.1, has been identified in the U.S. after causing a surge in infections across Asia. This variant's increased transmissibility underscores the need for continued monitoring and public health interventions.

Vaccination Rates and Waning Immunity

Vaccination rates have declined, with less than a quarter of adults and just 15% of children up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations as of May 2024. Waning immunity over time further increases vulnerability, especially among high-risk populations.

Underutilization of Treatments

Effective treatments like Paxlovid are underused, partly due to misunderstandings about eligibility and concerns about potential side effects. In some areas, prescription rates for Paxlovid are below 25%, limiting its impact on reducing hospitalizations and deaths.

Impact on Vulnerable Populations

Older adults, immunocompromised individuals, and residents of long-term care facilities remain at higher risk for severe illness and death from COVID-19. Additionally, racial and ethnic minority groups have experienced disproportionate impacts due to factors like limited access to healthcare and higher prevalence of underlying health conditions.

Public Health Measures and Awareness

Reduced public health vigilance, including decreased masking and social distancing, contributes to ongoing transmission. Experts emphasize the importance of continued preventive measures, especially for those at higher risk.

Conclusion

While the situation has improved compared to earlier stages of the pandemic, COVID-19 continues to pose a significant health risk. Ongoing efforts in vaccination, treatment accessibility, and public health awareness are essential to further reduce mortality rates.