WHO warns of possible ‘second peak’ of COVID-19

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that countries where the COVID-19 pandemic appears to be subsiding could still face a “second peak” of infections if lockdowns and social distancing measures are lifted too soon.

WHO emergencies director Dr. Mike Ryan said at a briefing on Monday that “the disease can jump up at any time,” especially as countries start to open up their economies and people become more complacent about following guidelines.

He emphasized the importance of countries implementing measures to detect and isolate infected individuals, as well as tracing and quarantining their contacts to prevent further spread of the virus.

Dr. Ryan also stated that it is important for countries to invest in strengthening their health systems and building up their public health workforce in order to effectively respond to and control future outbreaks of COVID-19.