The World Health Organization (WHO) warns of an increased risk of a new wave of pandemic COVID-19 in Europe in early 2021 and recommends wearing protective masks even during Christmas and New Year family gatherings.

WHO advises that, if possible, friends and family gatherings during the holidays should be held outdoors and that personal protection and social distancing measures should be strictly observed, even among loved ones. If the holidays do take place indoors, however, it is important to limit the number of guests and ensure good ventilation to reduce the risk of infection.

In the WHO European zone, which includes 53 countries, more than 22 million cases and about 500,000 deaths have been reported since the COVID-19 pandemic began. In the past 7 days, there have been about 1.7 million cases and more than 34,500 deaths.

As Christmas approaches, additional restriction packages go into effect in many countries – for example, stores are closing in Germany and catering establishments in the United Kingdom.