Global COVID-19 Cases and Deaths Decline, Except in Middle East and Southeast Asia, Warns WHO
Geneva, July 16, 2023 – The World Health Organization (WHO) released its weekly report on the global COVID-19 situation, revealing a decrease in the number of new cases and deaths worldwide. However, the report underscored a concerning rise in infections and fatalities in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, emphasizing that the pandemic is far from over.
According to the WHO report, confirmed cases experienced a significant 12% decline, totaling over 3 million, while reported deaths decreased by 22% to approximately 7,600. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed optimism about the overall decline but cautioned against complacency.
“While we are witnessing a very encouraging trend with the decline in COVID-19 cases and deaths globally, we must remain cautious,” Tedros emphasized. He further warned that despite the availability of vaccines, 68 countries have yet to protect 40% of their populations, leaving vast numbers of people susceptible to the virus.
Tedros reiterated that the perception of the pandemic being over is misguided and stressed the potential emergence of new and more dangerous variants. He highlighted the need to address the rising cases in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, where new weekly infections increased by 19% and 1% respectively.
World Health Organization reports a 12% drop in confirmed cases and a 22% decline in deaths globally, but warns of ongoing risks in specific regions.
The WHO’s report revealed that the Western Pacific region witnessed a 7% increase in deaths, while all other regions experienced a decline. However, the organization acknowledged that these numbers are likely underestimates and dependent on individual countries’ testing and reporting strategies.
Dr. Michael Ryan, WHO’s emergencies chief, also highlighted the worsening COVID-19 outbreak in North Korea. Despite multiple offers of assistance, including vaccines, North Korea has yet to accept any aid from the WHO or share detailed information about the current state of the outbreak.
As the world grapples with the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, the WHO urges nations to maintain vigilance, accelerate vaccination efforts, and ensure equitable distribution of vaccines to protect all populations. The fight against COVID-19 continues, and the risks of new variants and unprotected individuals emphasize the need for global cooperation in overcoming this global health crisis.
