GENEVA: The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the persistent threat of Covid-19 as a variant continues to circulate globally, according to WHO expert Maria Van Kerkhove.
During a discussion on the WHO’s social media channels, Van Kerkhove stressed the importance of remaining vigilant due to the virus’s ongoing circulation, evolution, and changes.
While there are currently three variants of interest (XBB.1.5, XXB.1.16, and EG.5) and six variants under monitoring, Van Kerkhove highlighted that one of the six, BA.2.86, is being elevated to a variant of interest.
Although there hasn’t been a noted change in severity, there has been a steady increase in its detection globally, prompting the reclassification to facilitate enhanced surveillance and research.
The WHO is also releasing a new risk evaluation for variant EG.5, which accounts for approximately half of the sequences shared worldwide. Despite its prevalence, there hasn’t been a reported change in severity.
Impacts of Covid-19 Pandemic
The Covid-19 pandemic, which has claimed millions of lives and inflicted significant economic and social disruptions, remains a global concern. The WHO declared a public health emergency of international concern on January 30, 2020, and lifted it on May 5, 2022.
In addition to acute infections, the WHO is also addressing the long-term effects of the virus, collectively known as Long Covid or post-Covid conditions. Van Kerkhove stated that evidence indicates a reduction in the risk of post-Covid conditions with Covid-19 vaccination.
Highlighting the importance of vaccination, Van Kerkhove urged individuals in the northern hemisphere to get vaccinated against both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, especially as the winter season approaches. The global administration of 13.5 billion Covid-19 vaccines has played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of the virus, she added.
