WHO warns of rising COVID-19 cases linked to new variant

No increased health risk, but caution urged

Although the WHO has confirmed that the new variant does not present a higher health risk compared to earlier strains, it stressed that the virus’s continued evolution could trigger new waves of infection in the future.

Seasonal pattern and immunity help limit severe cases

The organisation noted that the current increase in cases is consistent with the virus’s seasonal trends. However, the need for hospitalisation or intensive care remains limited, thanks to strong community immunity and widespread vaccine coverage.

WHO calls for vigilance and stronger surveillance

Despite the limited severity, the WHO has classified the global risk level as “high” and called on countries to enhance health surveillance, integrate COVID-19 into seasonal respiratory illness planning, counter misinformation, and encourage the public to follow preventive guidelines.