The World Health Organization in Europe has warned of a “further resurgence” of Covid-19 in early 2021, as it urged families to wear face masks during this year’s Christmas gatherings.
In a statement, the UN health organization expressed that while some “fragile progress” had been made, “Covid-19 transmission across the European region remains widespread and intense.”
It urged the public not to “underestimate the importance of decisions” and take extra precautions as many prepare to gather for the holidays. If possible, celebrations should be held outdoors and “participants should wear masks and maintain physical distancing.”
There is a high risk of further resurgence in the first weeks and months of 2021, and we will need to work together if we are to succeed in preventing it,” WHO Europe said.
For indoor festivities, the number of guests should be limited. Good ventilation is key to reducing the risk of infection. “It may feel awkward to wear masks and practise physical distancing when around friends and family, but doing so contributes significantly to ensuring that everyone remains safe and healthy,” the agency said.
The WHO and YouTube have also partnered on an inviting and humorous public service announcement (PSA) to help battle COVID-19 fatigue as we head into the holiday season. After nine months of physical distancing, lockdowns and other preventative measures, the video reminds viewers to stay vigilant and continue to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus as people in many parts of the world head into the holiday season.
Voiced by actor and comedian Jon Glaser (Parks and Rec, Bob’s Burgers, Girls) the short animated video reinforces the WHO’s recommendations that viewers should stay home when possible, wear a mask if they need to go out, wash their hands and stay away from others when in public.
The WHO’s European Region comprises 53 countries and includes Russia and several countries in Central Asia, a region that has registered more than 22 million cases of the new coronavirus and close to 500,000 deaths.
