The World Health Organization WHO Regional Director for Europe, Hans Henri P. Kluge, addressed the surge of coronavirus infections in China by advising people in Europe to keep wearing masks indoors and on public transport.
Kluge noted that the SARS CoV 2 variants circulating in China are already appearing in Europe and other regions. He aligned with the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control saying that the continued rise in China is not currently expected to significantly change the COVID 19 epidemiological picture in the WHO European Region.
Yet the European leader stressed that although China has shared the virus sequence data, more detailed and orderly information is still needed, especially about epidemiology and local conditions to better understand how the situation might unfold.
For this reason, Kluge reassured that while awaiting clearer information from China, it is not unreasonable for countries to take prudent steps to protect their populations. He also called for the implementation of measures that are proportionate and non discriminatory.
Recent reports from several countries show the growing presence of the new recombinant virus XBB.1.5, which is spreading rapidly in the United States. Kluge noted that there are still a few cases in Europe, while studies proceed to evaluate their potential impact.
After a three year long pandemic, when many health systems are stretched thin, with shortages of essential medicines and a depleted health workforce, there is no room for additional pressure on health services.
He urged countries in Europe and Central Asia to intensify their efforts to apply proven control strategies and to avoid complacency. This includes urgent reinvestment and recommitment to advanced virological and genomic surveillance, sewer monitoring where feasible, and strong protection for the health workforce to maintain effective health care delivery.
Finally, Kluge emphasized the acceptance of vaccines by the general population, the administration of additional doses to priority groups, the ventilation of crowded spaces such as schools, bars and restaurants, open air offices, and public transport, along with early and appropriate treatments for patients at risk of serious illness.
These actions can also lessen the impact of other respiratory infections, particularly the seasonal flu that health systems are currently grappling with. Science, vigilance, and accountability must come together as a new era of the epidemic begins, with a focus on securing a healthier future for all.
Health Organization European Region