November 23, 2024

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COVID-19 cases increased by 23% in the Americas;  Among the exceptions, Opas says, is Brazil

COVID-19 cases increased by 23% in the Americas; Among the exceptions, Opas says, is Brazil

(Reuters) – Cases COVID-19 The American Health Organization (Oops) said on Wednesday that a 23% increase in the Americas last week, mainly in the northern part of the continent, and almost all South American countries except Brazil, Suriname and Venezuela reported an increase in infections.

The Pan American Health Organization has also warned that North America could face a setback like Europe, where the United States and Canada have reported high rates of new cases.

In contrast, there was a 37% decrease in new infections in Central America.

“Although cases have decreased significantly in recent months, Covid transmission is still active in our region, so every time we let our guard down, the virus is gaining momentum,” said Carissa Etienne, director-general of the Pan American Health Organization.

And she warned that the experience in Europe, where many countries have reported record numbers of new cases in recent weeks, could be a reflection of the future in the Americas.

Although 51% of people in Latin America and the Caribbean have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19, there are 19 countries where vaccination coverage is less than 40% of their population.

The PAHO said case discharges are mainly occurring in densely populated areas where virus prevention measures have been suspended or relaxed.

With the holiday season and summer holidays approaching in the southern hemisphere, Etienne encouraged people to continue to wear masks and maintain social distance.

“Our region saw a huge jump in new cases after last year’s holiday season, and it took countries months to reduce new cases,” she said.

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