The world first became aware of Covid-19 five years ago. We evaluate where we are, remember how we got here, and consider where we may be going.

MOSCOW, 21st October, 2021 (WAM/Reuters) -- Russia reported a record 1,036 coronavirus-related deaths in the last 24 hours as well as 36,339 new infections, a surge that has seen some health restrictions reinstated. Moscow's mayor announced four months of stay-home restrictions for unvaccinated over-60s and the government approved a week-long workplace shutdown to cope with fast-rising cases.

Fewer tests and relaxed precautions may be driving up COVID infections just as New Year’s events begin.