Thread by @WHOEMRO

Easing or lifting the proven public health measures such as mask wearing and social distancing has been associated with increased transmission of the #COVID19 Omicron variant and sub-variants, contributing to an increase in cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

#Omicron

https://twitter.com/WHOEMRO/status/1550081911778844677

“This current trend shows that the #COVID19 pandemic is far from over. We try to forget COVID-19, but the virus has not forgotten us. In fact, it is taking advantage of our complacency to spread and mutate."

- Dr Ahmed Al Mandhari, the WHO Regional Director for @WHOEMRO

Booster doses must be taken when offered as these will help to protect lives, particularly among those most vulnerable, especially the elderly, those with co-morbidities and health workers.

#COVID19 💉

Although countries with high vaccination coverage are still seeing increasing cases, the severity of the disease is generally milder, resulting in fewer hospitalizations and deaths.

#COVID19 💉

Complete vaccine coverage in the @WHOEMRO Region is still lagging the global target of 70% of the total population by mid-2022. As of 18 July 2022, 45% of the Region’s population was fully vaccinated.

#COVID19 #vaccine 💉

Low-risk perception due to the decline in cases during the previous 2 months leads to hesitancy to take the vaccine. Lack of convenient access to the vaccine also contributes to the limited progress in coverage.

#COVID19 #vaccine 💉

“When a surge of #COVID19 cases and deaths occurs, we become extremely concerned that our health systems are put on further pressure. Vaccines gave us the upper hand over the virus now."

- Dr Al Mandhari, @WHOEMRO Regional Director

#HealthForAll_ByAll

On 8 July 2022, WHO’s Emergency Committee on #COVID19 concluded that the virus remains a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.