SWITZERLAND. COVID-19 cases are drastically rising in Europe. The Regional Director of World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Hans Kluge, said in an open statement, “Rising levels of COVID-19 fatigue are being seen in Europe. The sacrifices made to contain the COVID-19 virus have exhausted every people around the globe.”
“In such circumstances it is easy and natural to feel apathetic and demotivated, to experience fatigue,” Kluge added.
COVID-19 situation in Europe
According to survey data, around 60% of European countries have been affected by COVID-19 fatigue. Europe has registered over 6.2 million COVID-19 cases and over 24,000 deaths since February. However, COVID-19 restrictions were gradually relaxed in Europe during the summer after months of lockdowns.
Europe is now experiencing a second wave of COVID-19 infections but most European countries have lifted COVID-19 lockdowns. However, governments are still putting emphasis on social-distancing and good personal hygiene.
Kluge’s advice to tackle COVID-19 situation in Europe
Meanwhile, adherence to the rules by the general public in Europe remains a concern for policymakers due to public protests against restrictive measures. Kluge called on policymakers to engage with communities to devise and implement measures to curb the spread of the virus. He also urged authorities to work together with all European countries.
In a statement, Kluge said, “It is now important to reinvigorate and revive efforts to tackle the evolving COVID-19 challenges that we face.” Meanwhile, Europe is gearing up for the celebration season.
Talking about the celebration season, Kluge said, “As we enter the coming celebration season, we will need to combat fatigue by meeting the needs of citizens in new, innovative ways,” he said. By balancing science, social and political needs we can develop precautionary measures that are culturally accepted.”
He further added, “The religious celebrations and other social gatherings need to be celebrated in creative ways. For example, something like the virtual fast-breaking during Ramazan.”
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