From Our Bureau
5TH JULY 2020
The Corona Virus (COVID-19) pandemic situation remained grim globally, with the confirmed cases across the world soaring to 1,11,25,245 and the death toll reaching 5,28,204 in the 216 affected countries and territories, according to the latest update from the World Health Organization (WHO).
Globally, American region continued to be the worst-hit with 56,97,954 confirmed cases and 2,62,538 deaths. Europe came next with 27,74,221 confirmed cases and 1,99,879 deaths. Eastern Mediterranean region reported 11,53,157 confirmed cases and 27,074 deaths.
South-East Asia region’s tally stood at 9,18,591 confirmed cases and 24,473 deaths. Western Pacific region recorded 2,23,915 confirmed cases and 7,481 deaths and African region registered 3,56,666 confirmed cases and 6,746 deaths. WHO Risk Assessment at global level remained very high.
WHO has accepted the recommendation from the Solidarity Trial’s International Steering Committee to discontinue the trial’s hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir treatment arms for COVID-19.
WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, Dr Takeshi Kasai spoke of a ‘new normal’, one that improves both health and livelihoods during a virtual press conference with the World Economic Forum on COVID-19. “This ‘new future’ is the dividend of COVID-19 which WHO hopes for,” he added.
The Regional Office for the Americas/PAHO has launched a new site for donations to its COVID-19 Response Fund. The resources will help PAHO support countries and territories throughout the Americas. The Regional Office for Europe is launching a new podcast service entitled: Health in Europe. WHO works with thousands of inspiring individuals and groups, and this podcast series highlights their stories and how they might impact your day-to-day life. (eom)
