The World Health Organization’s Europe division laid out Wednesday safety advice for Europeans ahead of the winter break, including guidance on skiing and celebrations.
Warning that transmission rates across Europe are “widespread and intense,†the WHO asked that Europeans recognize their part in preventing “yet another resurgence of cases in Europe.â€
One of the subjects addressed is the controversial matter of skiing. Many European ski resorts are opposed to the shutdown of slopes, due to their dependence on ski tourism. But while skiing itself does not spread COVID-19, “busy mountain resorts do,†said the WHO.
The agency recommended that Alpine authorities postpone, limit or cancel mass gatherings while devoting resources to “de-congest†transportation hubs in the area.
It also urged policymakers to communicate changes to travel advice swiftly and accurately, “based on how the virus is spreading domestically and internationally,†including preventing those with the virus and their contacts from traveling.
Regarding winter celebrations with family and friends, the WHO similarly advised postponing or cancelling unnecessary gatherings, while religious services ought to take place outside “whenever possible or be limited in size.†More broadly, all indoor gatherings should take place outside where possible, with all participants wearing masks and maintaining social distance.
Finally, Europeans should avoid overcrowded transport, the WHO said, adding that international travel rules should be followed closely, as some countries might have rules requiring a negative test result upon arrival.
European countries in recent weeks have faced a brutal second wave in attempting to open up their economies once more, leading countries such as Germany and the Netherlands to order tougher lockdowns just before the winter break.
