New Cases Up 30% in a Week... "Africa Seems to Enter Third Wave"

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Regarding the recent surge of COVID-19 across Africa, the World Health Organization (WHO) stated that "it can be considered as reaching the third wave."

On the 3rd (local time), WHO said, "In the past week, the positivity rate has increased in 14 African countries. Among them, 8 countries saw a surge of over 30% in new cases," according to the New York Times (NYT).

WHO attributed the third wave to the relaxation of COVID-19 preventive measures such as social distancing and increased regional movement as South Africa entered winter.

Experts also analyzed that the spread of variant viruses caused the rapid increase in confirmed cases and deaths. The NYT stated, "Africa accounts for 3.7% of the world's total deaths, but considering that most deaths are not officially reported, the actual number is likely much higher."

Experts emphasized that unlike advanced countries actively conducting vaccinations, most African countries are struggling even to secure vaccines.

Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, said, "The risk of a third wave in Africa is becoming increasingly real," adding, "Securing vaccines is very important to reduce severe cases and deaths."

Out of Africa's 1.3 billion people, only 31 million have received at least one dose. Among them, 7 million have completed two doses. Dr. Moeti revealed, "In Kenya, only 1,386 people have completed vaccination."

WHO predicted that if confirmed cases surge in Africa, where the healthcare system is fragile, shortages of hospital beds and oxygen ventilators will worsen. Dr. Moeti stated, "Countries with high vaccination rates should share vaccines with Africa."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.