WHO Urges Continued Vigilance as COVID-19 Cases Rise Globally

The World Health Organization (WHO) expressed deep concern over the escalating number of COVID-19 cases and fatalities worldwide attributed to the virus. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the urgent need for sustained global efforts to combat the ongoing pandemic.

“The current surge in COVID-19 cases and deaths globally underscores the critical importance of maintaining stringent public health measures,” Tedros stated. He emphasized the significance of vaccination coverage and urged governments to prioritize the delivery of affordable and reliable tests, treatments, and vaccines.

While addressing the global situation, Tedros acknowledged varying levels of progress in different countries but stressed the universal need for continued vigilance. “We must remain cautious as the virus continues to pose significant risks, particularly to healthcare workers and individuals above the age of 60,” he added.

In Pakistan, the National Health Institute confirmed that COVID-19 cases have remained controlled, with positive tests from laboratory screenings falling below 1%. Dr. Murtaza Ali Khan, Head of the Center for Disease Control, reassured the public of effective containment strategies implemented across the country.

“Our approach in Pakistan has been focused on rigorous testing and monitoring, which has contributed to keeping the virus at bay,” Dr. Khan affirmed during an interview with British media outlets.

Meanwhile, several countries have reintroduced precautionary measures in response to the resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France, for instance, has mandated mask-wearing for participants and organizers of the Tour de France cycling race to mitigate health risks. Notable riders like Tom Pidcock from Britain and Ion Izagirre from Spain have withdrawn from the race following positive COVID-19 tests.