latest news Over 772 million confirmed cases and nearly 7 million deaths have been reported globally, WHO says
Stay informed on the latest global COVID-19 trends, including a surge in cases and emerging variants. WHO provides insights into preventive measures, vaccine effectiveness, and updates on the Omicron variant. Safeguard your health with expert guidelines.
“Amidst the evolving landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic, recent data from November 20 to December 17, 2023, reveals a noteworthy 52% surge in new cases, totaling over 850,000, as reported by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Sunday. Despite an 8% decline in new deaths during the same period, over 3,000 fatalities were recorded. Globally, the cumulative toll stands at 772 million confirmed cases and nearly seven million deaths as of December 17, 2023.
In its latest epidemiological update, WHO sheds light on global and regional situations, encompassing hospitalizations, ICU admissions, and insights into emerging variants. Notably, the period from November 13 to December 10 witnessed over 118,000 new COVID-19 hospitalizations and 1,600 new ICU admissions, marking a 23% and 51% increase, respectively, across consistently reporting countries.
A significant development emerged on December 18, as JN.1, a sub-lineage of the BA.2.86 Omicron variant, earned recognition as a distinct Variant of Interest (VOI) due to its rapid prevalence surge. While EG.5 maintains its status as the most reported variant globally, WHO emphasizes the evolving nature of JN.1, previously considered part of BA.2.86 sublineages.
Despite its low evaluated global public health risk, JN.1 poses potential challenges, particularly with the onset of winter in the Northern Hemisphere. WHO pledges continuous monitoring and risk assessment updates in response to the variant’s trajectory.
In the broader context, WHO underscores the persistent threat of respiratory diseases, including influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and childhood pneumonia. Encouraging preventive measures, WHO advises mask-wearing in crowded or enclosed spaces, respiratory etiquette, regular hand hygiene, vaccination adherence, staying home when unwell, and prompt testing for symptoms or exposure to COVID-19 or influenza.
As the world grapples with these health challenges, staying informed and adhering to precautionary measures remains pivotal for safeguarding public health.”
