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Five years after COVID-19 upended our lives, we've developed a curious collective amnesia. When was the last time you seriously reflected on playground closures, door-to-door testing teams, or the "disappointing Dan" press conferences? These once-extraordinary interventions now seem like strange artifacts from another era.

Jane Williams shares how COVID researchers now apologetically preface their ongoing work with self-deprecation, as though examining one of history's most significant social and medical disruptions is somehow passé. "I've made the decision to quite actively try not to be rude about my own work," Jane explains, pushing back against this strange cultural shift to minimize the pandemic's continued relevance.

Contrary to prevalent punditry suggesting public trust has been irreparably damaged by pandemic measures, Jane's research with participants across multiple Australian states revealed something surprising: most people would accept similar interventions again if needed – with the crucial caveat that communication and respect must improve. "We'd do it all again, as long as there was a bit more transparency... as long as we were treated better than we were last time," participants consistently stated. This challenges the narrative that procedural justice, rather than the measures themselves, represents the path forward for public health emergency management.

The conversation explores how working patterns have permanently shifted, creating flexibility for some while highlighting inequities for others. The concerning trend of sick days transforming into "work from home while sick" days indicates how pandemic adaptations have sometimes eroded traditional boundaries between work and personal life. Meanwhile, students who experienced educational disruptions during formative years continue navigating the ripple effects alongside broader challenges facing younger generations.

By excavating these pandemic memories and examining their lasting impact, we gain valuable perspective on our changed world. What other aspects of this transformative period deserve more thoughtful reflection before they fade completely from our collective consciousness? Join the conversation by reaching out on Instagram or emailing [email protected].

Undisciplinary - a podcast that talks across the boundaries of history, ethics, and the politics of health.
Follow us on Twitter @undisciplinary_ or email questions for "mailbag episodes" [email protected]