The media is reporting record-breaking numbers almost on a daily basis, whether it’s in terms of new COVID-19 cases or deaths. However, the positivity rate – derived from the number of positive cases out of total tests conducted – suggests that the true number of COVID-19 cases in the community could be far higher. Add to the mix the highly risky Delta variant, and it’s clear we need to be more vigilant than ever against the pandemic. How do we get a more realistic picture of the spread of COVID-19, and are we prepared to hunker down for what’s to come? We check in with Dr Kumitaa Theva Das, Infectomics Cluster, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia.

Image source: EPA-EFE