Empty vials of different vaccines by Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech and AstraZeneca against Covid-19 caused by the novel coronavirus are pictured at the vaccination center in Rosenheim, southern Germany, on April 20, 2021, amid the novel coronavirus / COVID-19 pandemic. Christof STACHE / AFP
At least 1.4 million lives have been saved in Europe thanks to Covid vaccines, the World Health Organization said on Tuesday, recalling that the virus was “here to stay”.
The WHO European region — which covers 53 countries including those of Central Asia — has registered more than 277.7 million cases of Covid-19 and more than 2.2 million deaths, according to the organization’s most recent data, from December 19, 2023.
“Today, there are 1.4 million people in our region –- most of them elderly -– who are around to enjoy life with their loved ones because they took the vital decision to be vaccinated against Covid-19,” WHO Europe regional director Hans Kluge told reporters.
“The first booster doses alone saved an estimated 700,000 lives.”
READ ALSO: FG Refutes Rumoured Resurgence Of COVID-19 In Nigeria
Kluge said it was essential for people to protect themselves, especially those most vulnerable, during the winter.
“As we learn to live with Covid-19 and other respiratory viruses, it’s absolutely vital for vulnerable populations to stay up to date with their Covid-19 and influenza vaccinations as recommended.”
Europe must continue to invest in its healthcare systems, he said.
“We may be unprepared for anything out-of-the-ordinary, such as the emergence of a new, more severe Covid-19 variant or a yet unknown pathogen.”
He called for more funding to resolve shortages of healthcare workers and basic medication.
“I am deeply concerned that health is slipping from the political agenda and that we are failing to address the ticking time-bomb facing our health and care workforce,” Kluge said.
AFP
Emergency services had been working through the night after a dam burst in the city…
The recovery of Elad Katzir's body brings to 12 the number which the army says…
Sheikh Musa was kidnapped by unknown gunmen on Monday, March 25, 2024, at his house…
The increase will see the customers paying N225 kilowatt per hour from the current N66.
NIMC noted that only registered citizens and legal residents with the National Identification Number (NIN)…
The Force Headquarters said these appointments were meant to strengthen community engagement and strategic communication.