World Economic Forum posted an update on February 11, 2022 confirming a global shift towards endemic phase. First, Netherlands announced plans to drop most COVID restrictions by month end, after hospitals sailed through record infections. And then Spain lifted their mandate to wear face masks as daily cases continued receding. But there was more good news from the World Economic Forum COVID-19 update to come.
The Efficacy of Our Vaccines Holds Steady
Czech government ended its mandate requiring vaccination certificates to enter restaurants and events. Meanwhile, Novavax confirmed its two-dose vaccine is 80% effective after a late-stage trial with teens aged 12 to 17. The Japanese Health Ministry approved use of Pfizer’s oral antiviral treatment, after it reduced risk of hospitalization or death by 82% in a Phase 2 study.
But the World Economic Forum COVID-19 update had positive news for the African continent too. The Omicron BA.2 variant is dominant in South Africa, and spreading up the continent replacing more life-threatening Delta. The WHO regional director believes ‘Africa is transitioning out of the pandemic phase of the COVID-19 outbreak’. However, she cautioned data was questionable due to inadequate surveillance, and access to tests.
Positive World Economic Forum COVID-19 Update for Germany
Omicron virus has spread throughout Europe at an alarming rate. However, the curve is showing signs of flattening, including in Germany. There, the week-on-week increase was a reassuring 5%, with hospitalization rates steady on 11 per 100,000 people.
The German health minister envisaged the case load steadying late last month, opening the possibility of easing national restrictions. The above information suggests a positive COVID-19 outlook for our fractious world, at a time when it is most welcome.
Breaking News
Are We COVID Safe With Our Boosters?
What To Do If You Catch COVID Yourself
