Europe's COVID-19 Increase Less Severe

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) today reported that after several months of meager infection rates, COVID-19 transmission has increased in some EU/EEA countries.

As of August 17, 2023, this increase has coincided with increasing detections of SARS-CoV-2 XBB.1.5-like lineages carrying the F456L mutation and other drivers can contribute to the increasing transmission rates.

These drivers include large gatherings during seasonal holidays and lower levels of immunological protection against infection after several months of very low disease incidence.

Fortunately, there is currently no sign of increased COVID-19 hospitalizations or pressures on healthcare systems. 

Additionally, the ECDC wrote adherence to national COVID-19 vaccination schedules is essential to protect people at high risk for severe disease and death.

As of August 11, 2023, among people aged 60 years and above, the cumulative uptake of a first booster was 84.9% (country range: 13.3–100.0%), and of a second booster was 35.6% (country range: 0.4–87.0%).

Countries should assess their readiness to identify target groups and conduct timely COVID-19 vaccination campaigns.

In addition, communication campaigns aimed at the public and healthcare professionals are deemed necessary to reach high-risk groups and inform them of the importance of staying up to date with vaccination.