The World Health Organisation has urged caution as European countries seek to ease pandemic restrictions over the summer.
About two thirds of Europe’s countries are planning to ease countries – although most of the continent remains amber-rated by the UK government.
WHO said there are big signs of progress across the continent – with deaths falling below 10,000 a week for the first time this year.
But regional director general Dr Hans Kluge also warned of widespread community transmission and the spread of the Delta (Indian) variant, warning that many people over the age of 60 remain unprotected.
Across Europe, he said, 30% of people have received one dose of vaccine and 17% have had two doses. The distance to reaching 80% coverage is “considerable,” he said.
Dr Kluge said: “We have been here before. Over the course of last summer, cases gradually rose in younger age groups, then moved into older age groups, contributing to a devastating resurgence, lockdowns and loss of life in the autumn and winter of 2020.
“Let’s not make that mistake again.”
Dr Kluge added: “Today, WHO/Europe is launching a campaign, together with UNICEF, to encourage everyone to exercise caution, reduce risks and keep safe from COVID-19, while enjoying the summer.
“If you choose to travel, do it responsibly. Be conscious of the risks. Apply common sense and don’t jeopardise hard-earned gains.”
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