WHO Warns of Rising COVID-19 Cases Amid Declining Vaccination Rates

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a concerning rise in COVID-19 cases globally, coinciding with an “alarming decline” in vaccination coverage, Anadolu Agency reported yesterday.

Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s director for epidemic and pandemic preparedness, stated that SARS-CoV-2 positivity rates have been increasing across 84 countries, with overall positivity exceeding 10% and surpassing 20% in Europe. Wastewater surveillance indicates actual virus circulation could be 2-20 times higher than reported.

Kerkhove emphasized that such high circulation is atypical for respiratory viruses, which usually spike in colder months. Additionally, at least 40 athletes have tested positive at the ongoing Olympics. The WHO is urging countries to co-administer COVID-19 vaccines with seasonal influenza shots, particularly for health workers and individuals over 60, who are most at risk. To combat these surges, governments must enhance pandemic preparedness and invest in public health measures.