WHO Reports 52% Surge in New COVID Cases Globally, Introduces New Variant Classification

In its latest press release, the World Health Organization (WHO) disclosed a 52% increase in new COVID-19 cases globally over the past four weeks, with over 850,000 new cases reported during this period. However, there was an 8% decrease in new deaths, with over 3,000 fatalities recorded compared to the previous 28-day period.

As of December 17, the global tally stands at over 772 million confirmed cases and nearly seven million deaths since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The WHO highlighted an increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations (23% rise) and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions (51% rise) globally, with over 118,000 new hospitalizations and over 1,600 new ICU admissions.

The WHO also introduced a new development in the classification of the Omicron variant. The sub-lineage JN.1, a variant of the BA.2.86 Omicron lineage, has been designated a separate Variant of Interest (VOI) due to its rapid increase in prevalence. Despite being categorized as a separate variant, the WHO currently evaluates the additional global public health risk posed by JN.1 as low. However, concerns are raised about its potential impact, especially with the onset of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.

The WHO emphasized that current vaccines continue to provide protection against severe disease and death from the JN.1 variant and other circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2. The organization is closely monitoring the evidence and will update the risk evaluation of JN.1 as needed.

Apart from the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19, the WHO noted a rise in other respiratory diseases, including influenza, RSV, and common childhood pneumonia. To mitigate the spread of these respiratory illnesses, the WHO advised individuals to adopt preventive measures, including wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, maintaining a safe distance, practicing respiratory etiquette, regular hand hygiene, and getting tested for COVID-19 or influenza if symptoms arise or after exposure.

As the world grapples with the evolving situation, the WHO reinforces the importance of a comprehensive approach to public health, addressing not only COVID-19 but also the concurrent surge in other respiratory infections.