Our lives had to turn on a dime five years ago as a pandemic swept over the world. Washington State University shifted as well, both on campuses and in communities as we assisted with testing, vaccinating, and even delivering broadband Internet for rural students.
In the ensuing years, WSU researchers and educators also built on the lessons of COVID-19 to help move the state forward: increasing access to lifesaving vaccinations, supporting health care workers, finding ways to make up for lost education, and accelerating research tools and vigilance to monitor diseases that jump from animals to humans—and possibly give an early indication of wider spread.
On a personal level, too, many of you took up pandemic hobbies, like baking bread, playing the piano, or exploring the natural world. And, for many, those hobbies still enhance lives and provide fulfillment.
WSU scientists are hard at work looking at viruses and diseases that could spark outbreaks or even pandemics.
The Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory is a first alert system for animal diseases.
Some pharmacy technicians can help with immunizations thanks to a WSU team.
WSU, hospitals, and health care organizations emphasize support for nurses after COVID-19.
Changes in the world of work have continued after COVID-19.
Schools, students, and families faced education challenges, but COVID-19 exacerbated existing issues.
Some pandemic hobbies and their benefits are still sticking around.