Warning of a "COVID-19" Wave in Fall and Winter

The European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety announced that EU countries need to begin preparing now for a new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the fall and winter, pointing to a "concerning increase" in cases. Commissioner Stella Kyriakides warned that the pandemic is not over yet, stating to "Cyprus Radio": "Unfortunately, there has been a concerning rise in infection cases in several countries." She added, "Over the past two months, we have been preparing for the fall and winter seasons, and we fully recognize that the upcoming pandemic wave should not burden our economies or our communities, especially at a time when they are already affected by war, the invasion of Ukraine, and inflation." Kyriakides, who is Cypriot, noted that the Commission has asked member states to accelerate the administration of booster doses of vaccines for those over 60 and for vulnerable groups. She said, "These months should be preparatory... so that our health systems are ready for potential new waves that may accompany seasonal flu, for example."