Could just be a way of saying, like, tensions have grown worse. When things sour, they get worse. Unless it’s sour cream. Or citrus. Or pickles.

I dunno I’m not a linguist.

I think I understand what you’re getting at but just keep in mind that there are two sort of separate discussions in regards to that.

The WHO and the health organization of various countries are usually pretty specific in their definitions. The “public health emergency” of COVID is over because:

• There is no longer a need for a coordinated international effort.

• The population is no longer largely at risk due to vaccinations/immunities.

• The mortality rate has dropped significantly.

But I don’t think anyone would deny that COVID is here to stay on a global scale. It’s just that the health systems of most countries are now equipped to manage it without all of the lockdown precautions.