WHO reports 89% global COVID-19 case drop

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported an 89% decrease in COVID-19 cases and a 62% decrease in deaths globally between January 23 and February 19.

This significant decline in cases was observed across all WHO regions, with most regions also experiencing a reduction in fatalities.

The Western Pacific Region, which includes the Philippines, saw a remarkable 94% drop in cases and a 77% decrease in deaths.

However, the WHO attributes this decrease largely to reduced testing and reporting delays worldwide.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus urged countries to maintain and enhance surveillance and sequencing efforts.

This is crucial for quickly evaluating and updating vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics as the virus evolves.

The WHO's Technical Advisory Group on COVID-19 Vaccine Composition also stressed the importance of ongoing surveillance to inform vaccine composition and assess their effectiveness.