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By JoyceMukucha
As the festive season has just started, the World Health Organisation (WHO); Regional Director for Europe Dr Hans Henri Kluge has urged Europeans to remain vigilant against the spread of Covid-19 as they hang around with friends and family.
Following that the European region was the epicentre of the pandemic even before the emergence of Omicron, with surging cases of the Delta variant, Dr Kluge encouraged the people to be smart, kind and safe.
“People are understandably concerned. As we go into the holiday season, we are dealing with two highly transmissible variants, with the potential to overwhelm our already overstretched health systems.
“But this does not have to be a repeat of last year, when Christmas was cancelled for so many, and families were unable to meet. My message to the people of Europe and central Asia is to exercise caution this holiday season. Use the many tools we have at our disposal. These stabilizers help us to manage the virus and keep people safe,” said Dr Kluge in his message.
He also emphasised the need for people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, and with the full dose series.
“Vaccines remain the best way to prevent severe disease and death, even with the arrival of the Omicron variant. If you are eligible for a third dose and it is available to you, take it.If you plan to attend social gatherings with friends and family, keep them small and if available, take a lateral flow/antigen or PCR test beforehand to make sure that you are not infectious.”
Even if people are fully vaccinated, Dr Kluge stressed that it was imperative to follow other preventive measures such as avoiding crowded or confined places, wear a well-fitting mask, observe physical distancing of at least one metre, ventilate indoor spaces by opening windows and/or doors, and keeping hands clean.
Seeking out reliable sources of information, he said, that provide advice based on the latest evidence and scientific consensus was of paramount importance.
“We have come a long way since last year. We have seen inspiring examples of solidarity. We know what works. We know how to keep ourselves and others safe. The emergence of Omicron doesn’t change that. WHO/Europe is in regular contact with experts across the Region and will share further information as soon as it is available.
“This holiday season, I hope you enjoy spending time with friends and family, but please do it safely,” he added.
According to UN News, in separate advice to governments and health authorities, WHO Europe called for “a balanced and risk-based approach” to COVID-19 prevention measures this winter season.
WHO Europe said with the right mix of measures, countries can find a balance between keeping coronavirus transmission down and societies and economies open.
It highlighted that government response should be centred around preventing severe COVID-19 disease and stabilizing transmission.
Measures include continuing to vaccinate, WHO said, targeting those most at risk, and prioritizing eligible groups for booster shots are important.
“Governments should also strengthen public health actions such as testing, contact tracing and regulations for mass gatherings.”