The European Centre of Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) warned on Monday that the continent is seeing a "true resurgence" in coronavirus cases and recommended that affected countries consider reimposing certain restrictions.
Why it matters: Many European countries, including former global hotspots Italy and Spain, were able to successfully curb the spread of COVID-19 over the summer through stringent lockdown restrictions and a phased reopening. The ECDC warned that the "recent increase" in infections is a result of countries relaxing their social distancing and other mitigation measures.
What they're saying: "Countries that are now observing an increase in cases, after having lifted their control measures following a temporary improvement in the epidemiological situation, should consider re-instating selected measures through a phased, step-wise and sustainable approach," the ECDC said in a "rapid risk assessment."
- "Assessment of risk at local level is important, taking into consideration the epidemiological situation, local services and lessons learned regarding the impact of previous measures."
- "As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, it is natural for people to become fatigued and reduce compliance with public health measures."
The state of play: Ukraine, Romania and the United Kingdom are among the countries that reported more than 1,000 new cases on Sunday. Poland, Belgium and the Netherlands reported more than 500.
