The number of countries reporting SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant of concern (VOC) cases continues to increase globally, with a total of 352 confirmed cases reported by 27 countries as of 16.00 on 1 December 2021, including 70 confirmed cases reported by 13 European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA) countries.
A SARS-CoV-2 variant belonging to Pango lineage B.1.1.529, with a high number of S-gene mutations compared to the original virus was detected at the beginning of November 2021. On 26 November 2021 the variant was designated a variant of concern (VOC) and assigned the label Omicron by the World Health Organization (WHO).
This Rapid Risk Assessment assesses the risk posed by the circulation of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 between 1 December 2021 to 31 January 2022, based on modelling scenarios and projected levels of vaccination coverage.
The risk assessed in this update is as follows: based on current levels of vaccination coverage and the dominance of the Delta variant in the EU/EEA, what risk does SARS-CoV-2 pose to the general population and the vulnerable population in the coming months?
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreaks in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) in European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA) countries have caused significant morbidity and mortality since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rapid risk/outbreaks assessment aim at supporting the countries and the European Commission in their preparedness and response to a public health threat. They provide a timely summary and risk assessment of a public health threat for EU/EEA countries related to a specific event. They also include potential options for response. As outbreaks or public health events develop, ECDC may issue updated risk assessments.
The aim of this threat assessment brief is to assess potential public health implications of the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta (B.1.617.2) variant of concern for the EU/EEA.
The aim of this Threat Assessment Brief is to assess potential public health implications of B.1.617 variants for EU/EEA countries, with a focus on lineage B.1.617.2.
On 24 May, ECDC upgraded B.1.617.2 to a variant of concern, after new information became available on increased transmissibility and some impact on vaccine effectiveness, especially after one vaccine dose. The suggestions highlighted in the Threat Assessment Brief regarding options for response remain valid, particularly vaccination rollout as a high priority to reduce COVID-19 mortality by vaccinating those at risk of severe illness in the shortest time possible.
This Threat Assessment Brief considers the risk of infection related to avian influenza A(H5N8) virus to the general population and the occupationally exposed.