A child with a mask decorates a Christmas tree in New York.CAITLIN OCHS / Reuters
The European region of the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned this Wednesday that Europe is at "high risk" of suffering a new wave of covid-19 infections in the first weeks and months of 2021, so it has Advised the population to wear masks at family gatherings for the Christmas holidays.
How to stop the coronavirus at Christmas
“Despite some fragile progress, the transmission of Covid-19 in Europe remains widespread and intense.
There is a high risk of a new resurgence in the first weeks and months of 2021, so we will have to work together if we want to be successful in preventing it ”, they have pointed out from the agency.
For this reason, the WHO has highlighted the need for all citizens to comply with their obligation to avoid a new resurgence of cases and not to "underestimate" the importance of their decisions because they may influence the future evolution of the pandemic.
However, and despite the risks, the United Nations body has recalled that there are some simple measures to comply with that society can carry out so that Christmas is celebrated in the "safest possible" way.
Specifically, the WHO has advised postponing or reducing religious celebrations and Christmas markets in countries with widespread community transmission, although it has highlighted the importance that in those countries with a lower contagion rate they are held outdoors, guaranteeing the physical distancing, hand hygiene and the use of masks.
In indoor meetings, even the smallest ones, the WHO has recalled that they can be especially “dangerous” because they bring together groups of people, young and old, from different homes who may not all be following the same prevention measures. infections
“Meetings should be held outdoors, if possible, and participants should wear masks and maintain physical distance.
If taking place indoors, it is essential to limit group size and ensure good ventilation to reduce the risk of exposure.
It can be uncomfortable to wear masks and practice physical distancing when you are with friends and family, but doing so contributes significantly to ensuring that everyone remains safe and healthy, ”WHO stressed.
Regarding travel, the agency has recommended avoiding any means of transport that may be “crowded”, as well as following the recommendations of the health authorities, indicating to them that they should limit, postpone or cancel mass meetings in the current European context of transmission.
The WHO has asked countries to adapt the settings for ski-related activities to eliminate the possibility of overcrowding, especially indoors.
“Skiing does not spread COVID-19, but crowded mountain resorts do.
While marking this year's vacation may seem different, we can still make the most of it.
We wish everyone a happy and restful winter break.
Play it safe and stay healthy, "concluded the agency.
Information about the coronavirus
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- This is how the coronavirus curve evolves in the world
- Download the tracking application for Spain
- Guide to action against the disease