Global COVID Surge Before Christmas Puts Governments Worldwide in Tight Spot

Global COVID Surge Before Christmas Puts Governments Worldwide in Tight Spot

Countries around the world are bracing for a surge of COVID-19 cases as Christmas quickly approaches.

The United States and European countries are experiencing significant increases in infections, hospitalizations, and deaths due to the Omicron coronavirus variant. According to experts, it could get even worse once Christmas arrives. However, some leaders, including President Joe Biden, are hesitant to enforce mandates and restrictions.

"The earlier [restrictions] are applied, the shorter the time they are needed," said epidemiologist Miguel Hernán. The Harvard University researcher helped to advise the Spanish government in 2020 on how to handle the pandemic. While he said he understands the hesitancy to enforce mandates, Hernán says that they are critical if governments want the pandemic to end.