The World Health Organization revealed an increase in new cases of the novel coronavirus by 4%, reaching 1.1 million new cases during the 28-day period from December 11, 2023, to January 7, 2024, compared to the previous 28-day period.

The organization stated, in an update released today, Monday, from its headquarters in Geneva, that deaths caused by the virus decreased by 26% during the mentioned period compared to the previous 28 days, with 8,700 new deaths reported. It added that a total of more than 7 million deaths have been reported worldwide since the outbreak of the virus until January 7.

The organization pointed out that new hospital admissions and admissions to intensive care units due to coronavirus infection recorded a total increase of 40%, equivalent to 173,000 cases and 13%, 1,900 cases respectively during the period from December 11 to January 7.

The organization noted that the new variant known as "G N 1" is currently the most widespread, reported by 71 countries, with a comprehensive assessment of its risks as low to public health globally based on available evidence.