WHO and ECDC Say New Wave of COVID-19 Entered Europe

VIVA – A new wave of COVID-19 infections has begun to enter Europe, the World Health Organization (WHO) and European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) stated that COVID-19 is not over.

The statement represents the position of the European commissioner for health and food safety, Stella Kyriakides, WHO regional director for Europe. Hans Henri Kluge, and director of the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Andrea Ammon.

"While unlike a year ago, it is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic is still not over," according to a together statement.

"We are unfortunately seeing indicators rising again in Europe, suggesting that another wave of infections has begun,” they added.

As reported by the Reuters site, WHO's region-wise data showed that only Europe recorded a rise in COVID-19 cases in the week ended October 2, clocking an increase of 8% from the prior week.

WHO and ECDC have also directed attention to the possibility of a re-emergence of influenza in the fall and winter. The statement underscores the fact that millions of people across Europe still have not been injected with the COVID-19 vaccine.

"European countries should make every effort to reach people who have not been vaccinated, ensure that they get a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine while implementing booster programs for priority groups, by national recommendations," they said.

The statement carries a warning that serious influenza infections may also impact people during the fall and winter.

"It is important that the following priority groups get influenza and COVID-19 vaccines: health care workers, the elderly over 60, pregnant women, and people with congenital or chronic illnesses," the statement said.