18 months ago, Europe became the center of the COVID pandemic. Today, it is once again.
The latest data compiled by Our World In Data shows cases, hospitalizations and deaths rising across Europe, in stark contrast to much of the rest of the world.
Back once again
This week senior officials at the World Health Organization warned that Europe could see a further 500,000 deaths this winter, as colder weather moves people indoors, where transmission is more likely.
Vaccination rates are high in some European countries, but remain stubbornly low in others — particularly in Eastern Europe. That fact, coupled with waning vaccine immunity for those that got their vaccinations early, and colder weather, could be a bitter combination.