The aftermath of the COVID public health emergency.

The U.S. public health emergency declaration for COVID-19 is set to expire this week, leading to changes in how the pandemic is managed. Vaccines and tests will no longer be free and will be covered by health insurance. COVID data tracking will be scaled back, while telemedicine access will remain in place. Emergency use of COVID-19 vaccines, tests, and treatments will continue. The end of the public health emergency also means the end of extra federal funding for Medicaid, which could lead to millions losing coverage. Experts worry that the lack of funding for pandemic preparedness could leave the U.S. unprepared for future threats.