Core Insights - The recent increase in COVID-19 positivity rates in various regions of China has raised public concern, with expert analysis provided by academic authorities [1] Group 1: Current Pandemic Situation - International monitoring data indicates a rise in COVID-19 infections in regions such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and the UK since March [3] - The positivity rate for COVID-19 among flu-like cases in domestic emergency departments rose from 7.5% at the end of March to 16.2% by early May, while the hospitalization positivity rate increased from 3.3% to 6.3% [3] Group 2: Epidemiological Trends and Predictions - Current pandemic trends suggest that the outbreak is in a "climbing" phase, with an expected duration of 6 to 8 weeks, likely concluding by the end of June [4] - There is a noted difference in infection peak timing between northern and southern regions, with northern areas potentially experiencing an earlier peak [4] Group 3: High-Risk Population Recommendations - For individuals aged 65 and older with underlying health conditions, it is recommended to take antiviral medications within 48 hours of infection to reduce severe illness risk [5] - General public health recommendations include wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, maintaining social distance of at least 1 meter, ensuring proper ventilation in indoor spaces, monitoring health for symptoms, and enhancing immunity through balanced diet and exercise [5] Group 4: Long-term COVID-19 Management and Research - Discussions on whether COVID-19 will become endemic suggest that the virus may gradually weaken in pathogenicity as it adapts to hosts, but long-term trends require further observation [6] - Domestic research teams are actively developing broad-spectrum vaccines and treatments for coronaviruses to address future respiratory infectious disease threats [6]