Omicron variant
As more and more countries register record numbers of infections the World Health Organisation, WHO, warns that both Omicron and Delta variants are "twin threats".
The warning takes place as much of Europe, the US, Australia and many other countries grapple with increasing caseloads of Covid-19 cases.
"Right now, Delta and Omicron are twin threats that are driving up cases to record numbers which again, is leading to spikes in hospitalisations and deaths. While there were 1.8 million recorded deaths in 2020, there were 3.5 million in 2021 and we know the actual number is much higher", said Tedros Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization.
In Europe, France has the highest new infection rate, with 208,000 new cases reported on Wednesday.
The WHO has warned that the Omicron variant still posed a "very high" risk.
01:03
Outbreak of viral hemorrhagic fever claims 6 lives in Ethiopia: WHO responds
02:09
Gabon researchers test promising single-dose malaria treatment
Go to video
South Africa’s unemployment rate drops slightly to 31.9%
Go to video
WHO issues urgent financial guidance amid aid drop
01:07
WHO reports rapid spread of Mpox with 17 deaths in Africa over recent weeks
01:14
Cholera surges globally as vaccine shortfalls and poverty fuel resurgence