Megan Culler Freeman – The Conversation

SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has evolved over time into multiple variants and sublineages. loops7 / E+ via Getty Images

May 17, 2023

Pivotal points in the COVID‑19 pandemic – 5 essential reads

Amanda Mascarelli, The Conversation

With the emergency phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in the rearview mirror, at least for now, we look back on a handful of stories that provided sharp insights at key moments in the pandemic.

Wishing won’t be enough to make the pandemic history. David Cliff/NurPhoto via Getty Images

January 26, 2022

When will the COVID‑19 pandemic end? 4 essential reads on past pandemics and what the future could bring

Maggie Villiger, The Conversation

None of our authors can see the future, but many do have expertise that offers insights about what’s reasonable to expect.

Is it possible to get COVID-19 twice? May James/AFP via Getty Images

August 25, 2020

A man was reinfected with coronavirus after recovery – what does this mean for immunity?

Megan Culler Freeman, University of Pittsburgh

Reports describe a Hong Kong man who was reinfected with the coronavirus after returning from Europe. Does that mean he wasn’t immune after the first infection?

A pandemic from a century ago doesn’t necessarily chart the course of the pandemic happening now. National Photo Company Collection/Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division/Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division

June 4, 2020

Compare the flu pandemic of 1918 and COVID‑19 with caution – the past is not a prediction

Mari Webel, University of Pittsburgh and Megan Culler Freeman, University of Pittsburgh

Differences in the viruses’ biology and societal contexts mean there’s no guarantee today’s pandemic will mirror the ‘waves’ of infection a century ago.

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