Geneva – The head of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed concern on Wednesday over the increase in COVID-19 cases and deaths in December due to holiday gatherings and the spread of the highly transmissible Omicron variant.
In a press conference from the WHO headquarters in Geneva, Tedros stated that nearly 10,000 deaths were reported last month, while hospital admissions increased by 42% in nearly 50 countries, mainly in Europe and the Americas.
“While 10,000 deaths a month is lower than the peak of the pandemic, it is still unacceptable. These deaths could have been prevented,” said Tedros.
He urged governments to continue surveillance and provide access to treatments and vaccines, as it is “certain” that cases are on the rise in countries that have not been reporting them.
According to the WHO director-general, the Omicron variant is now the most prominent in the world. However, he reassured that current vaccines should still provide some level of protection against it.
Maria Van Kerkhove, technical lead for COVID-19 at WHO, also highlighted an increase in respiratory diseases globally, not just from the coronavirus, but also from flu, rhinovirus, and pneumonia.
“We expect these trends to continue into January and the winter months in the northern hemisphere,” she said, while also noting an increase in COVID-19 cases in the southern hemisphere, where it is currently summer.
While it is common to experience coughs, sniffles, and fatigue during the winter, Van Kerkhove emphasized that this year, there is a “co-circulation of many different types of pathogens.”
In light of this, WHO officials recommend that people get vaccinated when possible, wear masks, and ensure that indoor areas are well-ventilated.
“The vaccines may not prevent you from being infected, but they significantly reduce your chances of being hospitalized or dying,” explained Dr. Michael Ryan, head of emergencies at WHO.
Tedros also urged people to continue following public health measures and to avoid large gatherings, especially during the holiday season, to prevent further spread of the virus.
The WHO has been working tirelessly since the beginning of the pandemic to provide guidance and support to countries in their fight against COVID-19. They have also been instrumental in the development and distribution of safe and effective vaccines.
As we enter the new year, it is crucial that we remain vigilant and continue to follow the advice and recommendations of the WHO and health authorities. Getting vaccinated, wearing masks, and practicing good hygiene and social distancing are our best tools in the fight against this virus.
Let us all do our part to protect ourselves and our communities. Together, we can overcome this pandemic and look forward to a healthier and safer future.
