COVID-19 in 2025: What’s Real, What’s Risky, and When to Worry

Separating fact from fiction—and knowing when symptoms need urgent attention

Even in 2025, COVID-19 isn’t over. New subvariants like XBB.2.3-like continue to circulate globally, reminding us that the virus is still evolving. Thanks to widespread vaccination and natural immunity, most cases today are less severe—but the threat hasn’t disappeared.

One lingering challenge? Health misinformation. From the early days of the pandemic, false claims—like “drinking bleach can kill the virus” or “COVID-19 vaccines cause infertility”—have spread rapidly, often shared by well-meaning individuals unaware of the harm. A study found that nearly 80% of adults had encountered at least one of eight false statements about COVID-19 and either believed it or weren’t sure if it was true.

The Reason: In times of uncertainty, people naturally search for answers—especially when reliable information is scarce. This creates fertile ground for misinformation to take root. Social media, echo chambers, and sensational headlines often amplify false claims, allowing them to spread faster than facts. Understanding how to recognize and challenge misinformation—not just for ourselves but within our communities—can play a crucial role in slowing its spread now and in the future.

The result? Confusion, fear, and in some cases, dangerous delays in seeking care. And the problem isn’t unique to COVID-19—other outbreaks, like global mpox (formerly monkeypox), have been followed by a similar tide of myths and misinformation.

So what’s true, what’s not, and when should you take your symptoms seriously?
Here’s a clear, fact-based guide to help you separate myth from medicine—and make informed choices for your health.

Approach to debunk the myth

Image Source: CDC

Top Myths Still Circulating in 2025—And the Truth Behind Them

Myth 1: “COVID is over—we don’t need boosters anymore.”

Fact: COVID-19 is now endemic, but it isn’t gone. Annual booster shots—especially for the elderly, healthcare workers, and people with chronic conditions—are strongly recommended. They reduce the risk of severe illness from new variants.

Myth 2: “Natural infection is better than vaccination.”

Fact: Natural infection offers immunity, but it’s unpredictable and comes with the risk of long COVID. Vaccination, especially when combined with prior infection, offers more consistent and longer-lasting protection.

Myth 3: “Vaccines were rushed and aren’t safe.”

Fact: All COVID-19 vaccines approved in India passed rigorous trials and real-world monitoring. Over 1 billion doses have been administered with a strong safety record.

Myth 4: “Young and healthy people don’t need to worry.”

Fact: While the risk is lower, even healthy people can develop complications or pass the virus to high-risk individuals. Also, long COVID can affect anyone, regardless of age or prior health.

Myth 5: The vaccines change your DNA.

Fact: They don’t. mRNA never enters the nucleus (where DNA lives). It gives your cells instructions to build protection, then breaks down and disappears.

Myth 6: If you’ve had COVID, you don’t need the vaccine.

Fact: Natural immunity fades. Studies show that people who get vaccinated after infection have stronger and longer-lasting protection.

Myth 7: Vaccines harm fertility.

Fact: No evidence supports this claim. They’re safe for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy. Some may see brief period changes, but they’re temporary and harmless.

Myth 8: Allergies mean you can’t get vaccinated.

Fact: Most people with allergies (to food, pets, pollen, etc.) can get vaccinated safely. Only those with a known allergy to a vaccine ingredient should avoid it—talk to your doctor if unsure.

Myth 9: Kids don’t need the vaccine.

Fact: Children can and do get seriously ill from COVID. Vaccination protects their health, schooling, and activities. It’s approved for kids 6 months and up.

Myth 10: If the vaccine worked, we wouldn’t need updates.

Fact: Viruses evolve—so vaccines must, too. Just like annual flu shots, updated COVID boosters help target new variants and reduce deaths and hospitalizations.

When to Worry: Symptoms That Need Medical Attention

Even if COVID symptoms start off mild, watch out for warning signs that may need urgent care:
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Persistent chest pain or pressure
Sudden confusion or trouble staying awake
Bluish lips or face
Severe fatigue that interferes with daily activities
High-grade fever that doesn’t reduce
Don’t ignore persistent symptoms like breathlessness, brain fog, or extreme fatigue even after recovery. These may be signs of long COVID and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

If you or a loved one experience any of these, seek medical attention right away—especially if you fall into a high-risk category.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed!

Your best protection is a mix of:

Staying up to date with COVID boosters
Wearing a mask in crowded or high-risk settings
Following reliable health sources like WHO, ICMR, and the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare

In 2025, information is everywhere—but trusted sources and timely action still save lives.

References:

Mrs. Mayuri Mathur

Mrs. Mayuri Mathur is a Senior Medical Writer (Patient education and digital) and seasoned content creator with a rich tapestry of expertise spanning over ten years. With a diverse background in content creation, she brings a wealth of experience to the table, from crafting insightful medical articles to developing comprehensive patient education materials, dynamic press releases, and captivating brochures and website content. Throughout her illustrious career, she has demonstrated an exceptional knack for distilling complex medical concepts into easily understandable content, making her a trusted resource for both professionals and lay audiences alike. Her meticulous attention to detail and innate creativity have enabled her to deliver content that not only informs but also engages and inspires. Whether elucidating intricate medical procedures or crafting compelling marketing materials, her versatility and dedication shine through in every project she undertakes. Her passion for writing, coupled with her profound understanding, makes her an invaluable asset to any team or project. In a constantly evolving digital landscape, where effective communication is paramount, Mrs. Mayuri Mathur stands out as a beacon of excellence, consistently delivering top-notch content that resonates with audiences across diverse platforms.