Categories: International

WHO officially declares COVID-19 as a pandemic

The World Health Organization has officially declared COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus as a pandemic as it spreads freely in more than 100 countries around the world.

The virus, which originated in China, has infected more than 113,000 people worldwide and killed more than 4,000, according to the WHO. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines a pandemic as an epidemic a sudden increase in the number of cases of a disease that has “spread over several countries or continents, usually affecting a large number of people.”

What is a pandemic?

According to the World Health Organization, a pandemic is declared when a new disease for which people do not have immunity spreads around the world beyond expectations. Declaring a pandemic has nothing to do with changes to the characteristics of a disease, but is instead associated with concerns over its geographic spread.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Headquarters of WHO: Geneva, Switzerland; Director general of WHO: Tedros Adhanom.

Find More International News

Sumit Arora

As a team lead and current affairs writer at Adda247, I am responsible for researching and producing engaging, informative content designed to assist candidates in preparing for national and state-level competitive government exams. I specialize in crafting insightful articles that keep aspirants updated on the latest trends and developments in current affairs. With a strong emphasis on educational excellence, my goal is to equip readers with the knowledge and confidence needed to excel in their exams. Through well-researched and thoughtfully written content, I strive to guide and support candidates on their journey to success.

Recent Posts

Which Book is known as the Bible of Communism? Check Here

Books have always shaped the way people think and understand the world. Some books are…

4 hours ago

Which Indian City is known as the Turmeric City of India?

India is famous all over the world as the land of spices. Different places in…

4 hours ago

US Fed Keeps Interest Rates Unchanged, Signals Policy Uncertainty

The US Federal Reserve has kept the interest rates unchanged at 3.50% to 3.75% in…

6 hours ago

Bengaluru Police Introduce AI Multilingual Feature in Namma 112 Helpline

The Bengaluru Police has launched the AI-powered multilingual feature in the Namma 112 emergency helpline…

6 hours ago

Gaganyaan Programme Expands With Civilian Astronaut Selection Plan

The Indian Space Research Organization started preparing to select the second batch of astronauts for…

7 hours ago

Maharashtra Cabinet Approves AI Policy 2026 to Boost Investment and Jobs

The State of Maharashtra Cabinet which was led by Honorable Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis have…

7 hours ago