We face a challenging winter ahead, but we should not be without hope, because all of us – governments, health authorities and individuals – can take decisive actions to stabilize the pandemic, warned Dr. Kluge, who estimated 700,000 deaths in the coronavirus pandemic by spring.

We could exceed 2.2 million deaths by spring, if current trend continues to increase, Dr. Kluge said in a statement.

The European region, which stretches deep into central Asia, reported that deaths due to Covid-19 rose to nearly 4,200 per day last week, a doubling of levels recorded at the end of September. Cumulative deaths have now reached 1.5 million in the region.

The WHO projected a “high or extreme” stress on hospital beds in 25 nations, and “high or extreme” in intensive care units (ICUs) in 49 out of 53 nations between now and March 1, 2022.

In order to live with coronavirus and continue our daily lives, we must take an approach beyond the vaccine, Dr. Kluge said. This means – he explained – receiving standard doses of anti-Covid-19 booster, as well as implementing preventive measures in normal routines.

We all have the opportunity and responsibility to help prevent unnecessary tragedy and loss of life, and to limit disruption to society and business during this winter season, the WHO Regional Director for Europe stated.

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