The World Health Organization (WHO) warning the world of the high transmissibility of the Omicron variant said that it is spreading at an unprecedented rate.
It also underlined the fact that even if it causes less severe disease, the sheer number of cases could once again overwhelm the world health systems.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, during a press briefing on Covid-19 flagged major concerns.
He said that while 77 countries have so far reported cases of Omicron but the reality is that Omicron is probably present in most of the countries.
He reiterated the importance of Covid-appropriate behaviour by saying “It’s not vaccines instead of distancing. It’s not vaccines instead ventilation or hand hygiene. Do it all…”
The WHO chief spoke of the ‘evolving evidence’ that suggests a small decline in the effectiveness of vaccines against severe disease and death — and a decline in preventing mild disease or infection.
Tedros also clarified the WHO’s stance on boosters. “We are against inequity… It’s a question of prioritisation… Giving boosters to groups at low risk of severe disease or death simply endangers the lives of those at high risk still waiting for primary doses.”
On the other hand, giving additional doses to people at high risk can save more lives than giving primary doses to those at low risk…” Tedros said.
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