The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday expressed concern about the “grip” of the COVID-19 epidemic in Europe, which could lead to an additional 700,000 deaths on the continent, bringing the total number of deaths to 2.2 million by the spring.
“Hospital beds can be expected to be under high or extreme pressure in 25 countries and high or extreme pressure in intensive care units in 49 out of 53 countries by March 1, 2022. Cumulative reported deaths are expected to reach more than 2.2 million by next spring, based on current trends, ”the organization said in a statement.
Currently, more than 1.5 million people have died from COVID-19 in this region of the world.
For the WHO, the increase in cases is explained by the combination of the prevalence of the highly contagious Delta variant, insufficient vaccination coverage and the relaxation of anti-COVID measures.
According to his data, deaths from the disease have more than doubled since the end of September, from 2,100 per day to nearly 4,200 daily.
“The COVID-19 situation across Europe and Central Asia is very serious. We are facing a challenging winter, ”said WHO Regional Director for Europe Hans Kluge. He calls for a “vaccine plus” approach to be adopted, combining vaccination, wearing a mask, hygiene measures and distancing.
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According to the WHO, wearing a mask reduces the incidence of the disease by 53%. A generalization of its use up to 95% could prevent more than 160,000 deaths by March 1.
In addition, “it is increasingly evident that the protection induced by vaccination against infections and mild forms is declining”, noted the WHO.
The institution therefore recommends a booster for the most vulnerable, including the immunocompromised.