"COVID Falls Out of Top 10 US Causes of Death in Historic Shift"

COVID-19 Drops from Top 10 US Causes of Death in 2024, Marking Major Public Health Milestone In a significant milestone for public health, COVID-19 has dropped out of the top 10 list of causes of death in the United States for the first time since the pandemic began. According to early data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-related deaths have been steadily declining since their peak in 2021, with a significant drop last year. The CDC's preliminary data shows that COVID-19 was no longer among the top 10 causes of death in the US in 2024. This marks a major shift from 2020, when it became the third leading cause of death in the country. The decline is attributed to increased vaccination rates, improved treatments, and changes in public behavior. Experts attribute the decline in COVID-related deaths to several factors. "The widespread use of vaccines has been instrumental in reducing severe illness and hospitalization due to COVID-19," said Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, a leading expert on infectious diseases at the World Health Organization (WHO). According to Dr. Van Kerkhove, the decline is also due to improved treatments and changes in public behavior. The CDC's data shows that while COVID-19 is no longer among the top 10 causes of death, it remains a concern for vulnerable populations, such as older adults and those with underlying health conditions. According to Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), "While we have made significant progress in reducing COVID-related deaths, we must remain vigilant and continue to take steps to protect ourselves and our communities." The decline in COVID-related deaths is a testament to the effectiveness of public health measures and the resilience of the US healthcare system. As the country continues to navigate the ongoing pandemic, experts emphasize the importance of continued vigilance and preparedness. In response to the CDC's data, public health officials are urging Americans to remain cautious and continue to follow recommended safety protocols, such as wearing masks in crowded areas and getting vaccinated against COVID-19. "While this is a significant milestone, we must not become complacent," said Dr. Van Kerkhove. "We must continue to work together to protect ourselves and our communities from the ongoing pandemic." The CDC's preliminary data on deaths in 2024 will be finalized later this year. In the meantime, public health officials are urging Americans to remain vigilant and take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones. Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) World Health Organization (WHO) National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) This story was compiled from reports by NPR News and BREAKING: NPR News.