Perspective The Future of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination — Lessons from Influenza List of authors. Arnold S. Monto, M.D. November 6, 2021 DOI: 10.1056/NEJMp2113403 Article Figures/Media Metrics 5 References Comment Comments open through November 17, 2021 Article After a period of falling Covid-19 illness rates, the recent spread of the delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 was a major disappointment and necessitated a reexamination of some previous assumptions. This reconsideration may, at least in part, be a correction to overly optimistic views of what highly effective SARS-CoV-2 vaccines could accomplish. Some observers had hoped the vaccines could eliminate transmission of the virus, the ultimate goal of reaching herd immunity. 1 A more likely picture of our future with this virus comes into focus if we examine the well-known infection patterns of another respiratory virus, influenza, both in and outside pandemics. That experience can help us reset expectations and modify goal...
