Almost one and a half million lives saved by COVID-19 vaccines

The use of anti-Covid vaccines has reduced the number of deaths by 57%, says the World Health Organization.

Most of those saved by vaccination, and there are more than 1.4 million of them, were diagnosed with mild or asymptomatic Covid, many avoided infection at a time when the Omicron strain was spreading. Experts predicted that the number of deaths due to COVID-19 in Europe will reach 4 million. But thanks to vaccination, this figure is much lower – 2.5 million deaths, notes Hans Henry Kluge, WHO regional director for Europe:

“Today in Europe, more than 1.4 million people – most of them older – are enjoying life with their loved ones because they have chosen to be vaccinated against COVID-19. That’s almost 1.5 million people who can play with their grandchildren, walk their dogs , take dance classes, be active members of your communities. That’s the power of vaccination.”

Studies show that the vaccine was most effective for older people, mortality decreased:

• by 57% among persons aged 70-79 years;
• by 54% among people 60-69 years old;
• 52% lower in the age group 50-59 years;
• by 62% among those over 80.

Among people 25 to 49 years old who received a second dose of the vaccine, death rates fell by 48%. And only 5% of this group completed the full course of vaccination – they received the second and third doses. That is, even among younger people without vaccination, the number of deaths would be almost twice as high, they say in the report.

The WHO notes that mortality statistics in Europe have decreased significantly. Israel saw the biggest benefits of early vaccination, with deaths falling by 75%. Next come the UK and Malta, with figures of 71% and 70%.

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