The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning that the risk of Covid-19 remains prevalent, with nearly 1,000 deaths a week occurring in the European region alone. Despite the declaration that the pandemic is no longer a global health emergency, the WHO stresses the need for continued vigilance and action to combat the ongoing threat posed by the virus.
Persistent Covid-19 Deaths in Europe
Hans Kluge, the Regional Director for Europe at the WHO, highlighted the ongoing impact of Covid-19 in the region. He revealed that close to 1,000 new Covid-19 deaths occur each week, although this number is likely an underestimate due to incomplete reporting by some countries. Kluge emphasized the urgency of achieving vaccination coverage of at least 70 percent for vulnerable groups to mitigate the devastating consequences of the virus.
The Lingering Effects of “Long Covid”
Kluge also drew attention to the phenomenon of “long Covid,” a condition where individuals experience persistent symptoms long after recovering from the initial infection. Shockingly, estimates suggest that one in 30 people in the European region, approximately 36 million individuals, have been affected by long Covid over the past three years. Kluge stressed the importance of developing comprehensive diagnostics and treatments for this complex condition, stating that true recovery from the pandemic cannot be achieved without addressing the long-term effects of the virus.
Under-Recognition of Long Covid
The WHO’s call for increased research in the area of long Covid stems from the under-recognition of this condition. Despite its prevalence, the understanding of long Covid remains limited, and effective treatments have yet to be fully developed. By shedding light on this issue, the WHO hopes to spur further investigation and the allocation of resources to better understand and combat the long-term impacts of the virus on individuals’ health.
The Resurgence of Mumps and Other Concerns
In addition to the ongoing threat of Covid-19, the WHO has also warned about the resurgence of mumps in the European region. In May alone, 22 new cases of mumps were reported across the region, highlighting the need for continued surveillance and vaccination efforts to prevent the spread of this highly contagious viral disease.
Furthermore, the WHO emphasized the health risks associated with heat waves. As temperatures rise during the summer months, the impact on vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions, can be severe. The WHO urged authorities to implement measures to mitigate the health consequences of heat waves, including providing adequate support and guidance to individuals at risk.
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The World Health Organization’s European office has cautioned that the threat of Covid-19 persists despite the pandemic no longer being classified as a global health emergency. With nearly 1,000 deaths a week and millions affected by long Covid, it is clear that comprehensive measures are still required to combat the ongoing impact of the virus. Furthermore, the resurgence of mumps and the health risks associated with heat waves require continued vigilance and action from authorities and individuals alike. As the fight against Covid-19 continues, it is crucial to prioritize vaccination efforts, conduct further research on long Covid, and address other emerging health challenges to ensure the well-being of communities in the European region and beyond.
