Europe continues to battle the third wave of COVID-19 with escalating case numbers and newly imposed restrictions. Concerns have been raised about the spread of new variants and delays in vaccine rollout. Governments in Italy and France have implemented new lockdown measures in certain regions to control the surge of new cases.
The new restrictions vary from region to region with some areas implementing full lockdown while others have imposed only targeted measures. Italy has closed schools and non-essential businesses across some regions with strict travel restrictions enforced. In France certain regions including Marseille have imposed strict lockdown measures with residents unable to travel more than 10 km from their homes without a valid reason.
Germany has seen a surge in cases with Chancellor Angela Merkel warning of exponential growth in infections. The country has extended its lockdown measures until April 18th with new rules in place restricting social interactions.
The United Kingdom has continued its vaccine rollout with over 30 million people receiving their first jab. However concerns have been raised over the AstraZeneca vaccine and its side effects resulting in some European countries suspending its use. The UK government has reassured citizens that the vaccine is safe and effective.
Spain has seen a rise in new cases with Madrid and Catalonia imposing strict restrictions. The Spanish government has urged citizens to follow the rules and take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.
Several other European countries have also seen an increase in cases including Poland Czech Republic and Hungary. These countries have enforced strict measures such as closing schools and non-essential businesses and imposing travel restrictions.
Despite the challenges posed by the third wave there is hope that the vaccine rollout will eventually lead to a decline in cases. European countries are working together to ensure a speedy rollout of vaccines with the European Union pledging to vaccinate 70% of the adult population by summer.
