Latest data released by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) revealed a 50% rise in Covid-19 cases reported, more than half of nations and territories reporting over 20%, while the region´s death toll jumped to 11%.

From December 19 and 25, the United States has been the country that has reported the highest Covid-19 figures, followed by Canada and Argentina, while Central American nations have informed a rise in coronavirus infections, except for Panama and Belize.

Bolivia, on the other hand, led the Dec. 19-25 week in the increased cases in the Andean area (La Paz, Oruro and Potosí Departments). Colombia, Ecuador and Peru also reported rises in coronavirus cases in the southern cone; while Paraguay and Uruguay reported a similar trend.

The Covid-19 figures surged in the Caribbean, while Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica reported significant rises compared to previous seven days.

The new Omicron variant, classed as a variant of concern by the World Health Organization (WHO), was reported in 27 countries and territories in the Americas.

Given such a scenario, and in view of holidays, PAHO urged to speed up the vaccination campaign to fight Covid-19 and to go on rolling out public health protocols and measures.

To reduce omicron transmission, PAHO reaffirmed the significance of wearing well-fitting face masks, social distancing, ventilation in indoor places, avoiding crowds and constant hand-washing.

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