The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasized on Wednesday that the “collective amnesia” surrounding the seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic should not impede efforts to guard against the ongoing spread of respiratory diseases as the Northern Hemisphere braces for winter.
Similar to COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) “must be taken seriously,” as they present significant risks to vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing or chronic health conditions, WHO Europe highlighted while launching a regional protection campaign.
“Collective amnesia on COVID-19 has set in and this is concerning,” stated Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe.
He pointed out that 53 countries in Europe and Central Asia reported up to 72,000 deaths from seasonal flu, which accounts for approximately 20% of the global disease burden. “The vast majority of these deaths can be prevented,” he stressed, noting that the most vulnerable individuals “must be protected” through vaccination.
“National health authorities should fulfill their role of protecting vulnerable populations,” Kluge continued, advocating for increased investment in public healthcare.
New and existing viruses can “wreak havoc on health systems, economies, and society,” Kluge warned, urging for regular and systematic monitoring to “ensure we are prepared to confront the next major health emergency, whenever and wherever it may arise.”
