I think when people talk about COVID-19 in the past tense they're referring to the period of national lockdowns, which are no longer necessary since the health

I think when people talk about COVID-19 in the past tense they're referring to the period of national lockdowns, which are no longer necessary since the health services are not being overwhelmed in the way before anyone had immunity/vaccinations. I don't think anyone believes the virus was eradicated.