People around the globe are trying to feel their way forward as the pandemic continues to rage. Japan is no exception. A month after its state of emergency was lifted, infections are trending upward. Some parts of the US and Latin America are seeing an exponential surge in cases. The risks are also rising in parts of South Asia, the Middle East and Africa. As governments look for a balance between containing the virus and resuming economic activity, the prospect of repeated outbreaks is ever-present. We report from the front lines of the world's efforts to contend with the virus. We also ask experts about the long-term outlook, and look at how people can prepare for the next wave.