Agencies:

The World Health Organization warned on Tuesday that the number of deaths due to COVID in Europe could rise from 1.5 million currently to 2.2 million by March 2022, if the situation remains the same.

It said it expects "high or very severe pressure in intensive care units in 49 of 53 countries between now and March 1, 2022," adding that "the total number of recorded deaths is expected to exceed 2.2 million by next spring, based on the current trend."

More than 1.5 million COVID deaths have been recorded in the region so far.

The World Health Organization sees that the increase in cases is due to the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant, insufficient vaccination, and the easing of pandemic control measures.

Data from the organization showed that COVID-related deaths have doubled since the end of September, from 2,100 daily to about 4,200.

Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, said, "The situation regarding COVID-19 across Europe and Central Asia is extremely serious. We are facing a challenging winter," calling for an "extra vaccine" approach combining vaccination, mask-wearing, health measures, and distancing.

The World Health Organization considered that wearing a mask reduces disease infection by 53%. Widespread use of masks could prevent up to 95% of more than 160,000 deaths by March 1.

It is also "increasingly clear that the protection provided by vaccination against infection and mild forms is waning," according to the World Health Organization.

Therefore, the agency recommends a booster dose for the most vulnerable groups, including those with immunodeficiency.