Six years after COVID reshaped life here in Erie and across the country, local experts say the lessons we learned during what became a global pandemic still matter. Six years later, the images still feel familiar — crowded ERs, empty streets, and a community trying to navigate something none of us had ever seen.
“Early spring, March and April, when we started to have the first cases diagnosed here in the area… once it hit, it hit hard.”
But the impact wasn’t just medical. At Gannon University, public health professors say COVID changed how we think about viruses, research, and preparedness.
“When you have not done online teaching — either as the professor or as the student — everyone had to adjust quickly, just the same as all of our children from K through 12 had to adjust. It was a quick learning curve for all of us. Some of it we did OK, some we did poorly, and some we learned from.”
Experts say Erie is in a stronger place now — with better tools, better coordination, and a better understanding of how quickly a virus can spread.
“One of the biggest takeaways from COVID is communication. Staying informed and acting early is what will protect Erie and the country.”
Both experts say the biggest lesson is that health isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all.
“We just really need to all work to redefine health and recognize that, together, we make each other healthy.”
“We have to focus on a variety of things. We need better communication among politicians, community members, and healthcare providers, and open conversations so people don’t feel scared to talk about their fears.”
Another takeaway from COVID is how the experience will continue to redefine Erie’s strength — and how we, as a community, will use these lessons moving forward.