WHO Urges Europe to Strengthen COVID-19 Measures... "Autumn Is Already Too Late"

European Office Chief "Similar to Last Summer"
"Must Prepare in Advance as It May Worsen in Autumn"

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Oh Gyumin] The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for strengthened quarantine measures as COVID-19 cases show a notable resurgence in Europe.

On the 19th (local time), according to foreign media including the UK Guardian, Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, mentioned the spread of Omicron subvariants in a statement, saying, "It is clear that the situation is similar to last summer."

Kluge added, "Waiting until autumn to implement measures is too late," urging European governments and health authorities to prepare now for the coming months. The reason is that the spread could worsen during autumn when indoor activities increase.

He also emphasized the need to increase vaccination among the general public and consider a fourth dose for high-risk groups. Wearing masks indoors and on public transportation is also necessary.

Kluge warned that due to the rapid increase in confirmed cases and reduced COVID-19 surveillance by governments, "Europe is facing a difficult autumn and winter."

He explained that in 53 countries across the European continent, including some Central Asian countries, the number of new confirmed cases has tripled over the past six weeks.

Despite relatively low severe cases, Kluge analyzed that weekly COVID-19 deaths reach about 3,000 as infections among the elderly continue to rise.

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