Covid-19 vaccines have saved at least 1.4 million lives in Europe, according to the World Health Organisation's (WHO) regional head.
"Today, 1.4 million people in our region – primarily the elderly – can continue living and enjoying life with their loved ones, thanks to their crucial decision to receive a Covid-19 vaccine," stated Hans Kluge during an online press conference.
WHO data, as of 19 December, records over 277.7 million Covid-19 cases within the region, which includes 53 countries and extends to Central Asia, with more than 2.2 million fatalities.
Kluge emphasised the profound impact of the primary vaccine dose in saving roughly 700,000 lives. He urged the need for continued protection, particularly for the vulnerable, during winter.
"As we learn to live alongside Covid-19 and other respiratory viruses, it is absolutely vital for vulnerable populations to keep their Covid-19 and flu vaccinations up to date."
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Kluge impressed upon the necessity for Europe to persist in investing in its health. "We run the risk of not being prepared for any unforeseen circumstances, such as the emergence of a more severe Covid-19 variant or an as yet unknown pathogen," warned Kluge.
He insisted Europe must strive to improve the condition of healthcare professionals and address the shortage of basic medications through increased funding.
"I am deeply concerned that health issues are vanishing from the political agenda and that we can't seem to address the ticking time bomb faced by our healthcare and care staff," Kluge asserted.
