Mayur MohtaThe World Health Organization says infections could rise across the continent in the colder months. It urges health systems to get ready as the virus gains ground in western countries.
Health experts warn that COVID-19 in Europe could rise again as the weather turns cold. The Russian office of the World Health Organization shared this outlook in comments to journalists.
Why the colder months matter
The organization pointed to a recent change in the pattern. In past years, coronavirus infections have peaked in summer rather than winter. That trend now looks less certain.
What the WHO says about the current situation
The agency explained where things stand today. It also stressed that nobody can yet say how fast the virus will move.
“SARS-CoV-2 activity is currently rising in a number of countries, primarily in the western part of the WHO European Region. Although the timing of the virus’s further spread across the region remains uncertain, an increase in COVID-19 incidence during the autumn-winter period is possible, highlighting the need for national health systems to be prepared for such a scenario,” the WHO stated.
Earlier warning from Russia’s health watchdog
Anna Popova, head of Rospotrebnadzor, spoke about the wider risk in an earlier interview. She said a new pandemic could begin if a new genetic variant of the virus appears. Her agency is watching the situation closely and is ready for any scenario.
What it means for readers
For now, the message is about preparation, not panic. Officials want health systems ready if COVID-19 in Europe picks up speed in the coming months.
Akshay Didwaniya
Pratik Agrawal
