Poland's health ministry reported a record 36,665 COVID-19 cases and 248 deaths on Friday, as an Omicron-driven fifth wave of infections takes hold. Since the start of the pandemic Poland has reported 4,443,217 infection cases and 103,626 deaths.
Authorities have warned that the latest wave of the pandemic will drive case numbers to levels as yet unseen in the European Union's largest eastern member, putting severe strain on the health service.
A week ago daily cases were just over 16,000.
Poland has a lower rate of vaccination than the EU average and the limited restrictions in place, such as wearing masks in enclosed public spaces, are often not strictly enforced.
On Wednesday, Health Minister Adam Niedzielski said that state employees would move to remote working and private sector companies should follow suit in order to limit the spread of the virus.
The ministry also informed in Friday's report about 248 COVID-related deaths, of which 181 were people with pre-existing medical conditions.
Since the start of the pandemic Poland has reported 4,443,217 infection cases and 103,626 deaths.
Źródło: TVN24 News in English, Reuters, PAP
Źródło zdjęcia głównego: TVN24