C19 Pandemic Picture Looks Cloudy

The World Health Organization (WHO) today announced a decrease of 17% in COVID-19 cases and a 30% reduction in related fatalities, respectively, compared to the previous 28 days.

However, Edition #141 indicates this positive pandemic picture is mixed at the regional level.

At the regional level, the number of newly reported 28-day COVID-19 cases increased across three of the six WHO regions: 
the Eastern Mediterranean Region (+8%), the Western Pacific Region (+15%), and the South-East Asia Region 
(+454%).

While cases decreased in three WHO regions: the African Region (-49%), the European Region (-37%), and the Region of the Americas (-34%). 

As of May 4, 2023, most countries have COVID-19 vaccines, antivirals, and monoclonal antibody therapies available.

Previously, a non-peer-reviewed study revealed on April 26, 2023, that the SARS-CoV-2 XBB.1.16 virus lineage had become the most predominant variant in India. The study also shows that the clinical features and outcome of XBB.1.16* cases were similar to those of other co-circulating Omicron lineage infected cases in Maharashtra, India.

Updated on May 7, 2023 - insert relevant study and related link.