The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday issued a stern announcement emphasizing that the threat of COVID-19 remains pervasive, with nearly 10,000 deaths reported in December alone.
Despite the virus no longer being classified as a global health emergency, WHO Chief Tedros Ghebreyesus stressed that it is still circulating, evolving, and causing fatalities.
The surge in cases during December was attributed to gatherings over the Christmas holiday and the prevalence of the JN.1 variant, now the most commonly reported strain globally. According to data from various sources, there was a concerning 42% increase in hospitalizations and a 62% rise in intensive care unit admissions compared to November.
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However, it’s crucial to note that these figures are derived from less than 50 countries, primarily in Europe and the Americas, indicating that the actual numbers may be higher. Tedros cautioned, “It is certain that there are also increases in other countries that are not being reported.”
While acknowledging that 10,000 deaths per month is a significant drop from the pandemic’s peak, Tedros emphasized that this level of preventable death is unacceptable. He urged governments to maintain robust virus surveillance, conduct sequencing, and ensure access to affordable and reliable tests, treatments, and vaccines.
“Governments and individuals must continue taking precautions against COVID-19, just as they do for other diseases,” Tedros stated.
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He called for continued vaccination efforts, widespread testing, the use of masks when necessary, and ensuring proper ventilation in crowded indoor spaces.
As the world grapples with the ongoing threat of COVID-19, the WHO’s message serves as a stark reminder that vigilance and proactive measures remain imperative in the battle against the virus.
