In an online press conference on Thursday, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned that Europe could be "Delta dominant" by August. Citing easing of social and travel restrictions, and frequent gatherings, WHO pointed out that the 10-week decline, may have ended as the number of new Covid-19 cases has gone up.
WHO's Regional Director for Europe, Hans Kluge said, "Last week, the number of cases rose by 10 per cent. This is taking place in the context of a rapidly evolving situation, a new variant of concern, the Delta variant, and in a region where despite tremendous efforts by the member states, millions remain unvaccinated."
He noted that the "Delta variant overtakes the Alpha very quickly through multiple and repeated introductions, and is already translating into increased hospitalisations and deaths", reports Xinhua news agency. In the conference, he also mentioned that new variants, the deficit in vaccine uptake and a decrease in Covid-19 restrictions may cause the new wave of the pandemic in the region.
He further advised that counter the expected upsurge, the region should "remain disciplined" and the citizens must take vaccines when available and offered. He said, "Vaccines are effective against the Delta variant. Not one dose but two doses. Delays in getting vaccinated cost lives and economies, and the slower we vaccinate, the more variants will emerge."
Why is it worrisome?
After a substantial dip in Covid-19 cases in the European countries like Germany, France, and Spain, the region is now facing a surge in cases. The new ‘variant of concern’ has been reported to be highly infectious and is 60% more transmissible than the Alpha variant. The variant is and could continue causing hospitalizations and is also noted to have slightly reduced the efficacy of vaccines.
There are, however, reports from the UK which suggest that even though one jab of the vaccine may not be very effective against the variant, two jabs will have increased efficacy. Considering this, Kluge also pointed out the disparity in vaccine equality between rich and poor countries in Europe. He noted that it was "unacceptable" that vaccine coverage was 24 per cent in the region.
"With these figures, nowhere is the pandemic over, and it would be very wrong for anyone - citizen and policymakers - to assume that it is... The stakes are still high. Covid-19's trajectory in the coming weeks and months depends on the decisions and actions of us as individuals, communities, and as governments, we will take now and the weeks ahead, solidarity pays off," he added.
(With inputs from IANS)