World Health Organization on Friday February 28, upgraded the global risk from the new coronavirus to its highest level. 

The United Nations organization stated that the continued increase in cases and countries affected was “clearly of concern”.

World Health Organization chief,Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told newsmen; 

“We have now increased our assessment of the risk of spread and the risk of impact of COVID-19 to very high at global level. 

“We do not see evidence as yet that the virus is spreading freely in communities. As long as that’s the case, we still have a chance of containing this virus.

“The key to containing this virus is to break the chain of transmission. Our greatest enemy is not the virus itself, it’s fear, rumours and stigma and our greatest assets are facts, reason and solidarity.” 

Tedros also revealed that 20 vaccines were in development globally and several treatments were in clinical trials with results expected “in a few weeks”. He however warned that people do not need to wait for vaccines and therapeutics, stressing that there are things every individual can do to protect themselves and others. 

The WHO Chief also announced that the WHO-China Joint Mission has published its report, which is available in English on the WHO website. He said the report includes a wealth of information and 22 recommendations for China, for affected and unaffected countries, for the international community and the general public.

He added; 

“It calls for all countries to educate their populations, to expand surveillance, to find, isolate and care for every case, to trace every contact, and to take an all-of-government and all-of-society approach – this is not a job for the health ministry alone. 

“Your risk depends on where you live, your age and general health. WHO can provide general guidance. You should also follow your national guidance and consult local health professionals.”