new Strategies Emerge as COVID-19 Evolves into ‘COVID-25’
BOSTON – As the virus that causes COVID-19 continues to circulate and evolve, healthcare professionals are preparing for a new phase of management, dubbed ‘COVID-25,’ with emerging research and updated guidelines aimed at protecting vulnerable populations and mitigating the impact of respiratory season. While the virus remains a concern for all, renewed focus is being placed on proactive strategies for immunocompromised individuals and a return to familiar preventative measures.
The ongoing evolution of the virus necessitates a continued search for effective prophylaxis and treatment options. Early research suggests a potential benefit from nasal sprays in preventing viral establishment on the respiratory mucosa, though Dr. William Schaffner emphasized the need for confirmation through further studies. “These viruses implant on the respiratory mucosa,” he explained; “therefore, a nasal spray may keep the virus off the mucosal surface preventing the virus from establishing itself. I think its very interesting.” This research underscores the commitment of scientists to finding new tools in the fight against the virus.
A critical component of managing ‘COVID-25’ involves ensuring immunocompromised patients – including those with solid-organ or stem cell transplants - are fully aware of their risks and have a pre-planned course of action. Dr.Scott Gottlieb stressed the importance of proactive communication, stating, “It is absolutely critical that patients with notable risk factors for progression…know that there are options for them-that they are informed ahead of time and have an action plan about what they can and cannot take if and when they turn positive.”
Clinicians will soon have access to updated guidance to support these efforts.The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) will release updated COVID-19 treatment and management guidelines, to be discussed by dr. Rajesh Gandhi of Harvard Medical School and Dr. Arjun Bhimraj at IDWeek 2025 on october 22.
Beyond pharmaceutical interventions, experts are reinforcing the importance of nonpharmaceutical preventative measures. Dr. Schaffner concluded by reminding the public to “dust off those masks and remember the importance of hand hygiene and social distancing” as respiratory season approaches.
Disclosure: Dr. Adalja serves as a consultant to Invivyd and shionogi. Dr. Gottlieb reported grants or contracts to his institution from AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly, Gilead Sciences, Johnson & Johnson, Kinevant Sciences, Pfizer, and Regeneron; participation on advisory boards and/or consulting with AbbVie, AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly, Gilead, GSK Pharmaceuticals, Invivyd and Roche; honoraria for lectures from Gilead and Pfizer (the latter unrelated to infectious diseases); prior de minimis investment in AbCellera; and a gift in kind to his institution from Gilead Sciences to facilitate an unrelated academic-sponsored clinical trial (NCT03383419). Drs. Bhimraj and Schaffner reported no relevant financial disclosures.
This article is from the October 2025 print issue.