The European Commission on Wednesday outlined a strategy for sustainably managing the COVID-19 pandemic in the coming winter months, underscoring that every 17 seconds this infection takes a life in Europe.

In its strategy the EC points out that winter is “a period that can bring a risk of increased transmission of the virus owing to specific circumstances such as indoor gatherings,” which is why the strategy “recommends continued vigilance and caution throughout the winter period and into 2021 when the rollout of safe and effective vaccines will occur.”

The European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, warned of the risks stemming from gatherings and celebrations during the Advent, Christmas and New Year holidays.

“We cannot jeopardise the efforts made by us all in the recent weeks and months. This year, saving lives must come before celebrations. But with vaccines on the horizon, there is also hope. All Member States must now be ready to start vaccination campaigns and roll-out vaccines as quickly as possible once a safe and effective vaccine is available.”

The Commission will then provide further guidance on a gradual and coordinated lifting of containment measures.

Considering the latest guidelines for member-states, the strategy highlights physical distancing and limiting social contacts, testing and contact tracing and safe travel.

The EC says that physical distancing and limiting social contacts are key for the winter months, including the holiday period. “Measures should be targeted and based on the local epidemiological situation to limit their social and economic impact and increase their acceptance by people.”

Testing and contact tracing is perceived as “essential for detecting clusters and breaking transmission.”

“Most Member States now have national contact tracing apps. The European Federated Gateway Server (EFGS) enables cross-border tracing,” says the EC.

Pandemic fatigue

The Commission says that “pandemic fatigue and mental health are natural responses to the current situation.”

Member States are urged to follow the World Health Organisation European Region's guidance on reinvigorating public support to address pandemic fatigue. Psychosocial support should be stepped up too.