You remember that I reported the virus was on the decline for consecutive six weeks, but first time in seven weeks we have a covid increase.

Reported cases increased in four of WH six regions the Americas, Europe, Southeast Asia and the Eastern Mediterranean.

This is disappointing, but not surprising.

We're working to better understand this.

Increases in transmission.

Some of it appears to be due to relaxing of public health measures.

Continued circulation of violence and people letting down their gun vaccines will help to save lives.

But if countries rely solely on vaccines, they are making a mistake.

Basic public health measures remain the foundation of the response.