Covid-19 testing still vital even as vaccines roll out, says WHO chief 

Testing will still be a critical tool against COVID-19, even as vaccines are deployed against the disease, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Gheybreyesus said on Friday.

During his regular briefing on the crisis, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Gheybreyesus emphasized how testing has been common among countries which have worked to control the virus, reports UN News. 

"As vaccines are rolled out, testing will continue to play a vital role", he said. 

"Initially, health workers, older people and other at-risk groups will be prioritised for vaccination. That will still leave the virus with a lot of room to move, and testing will remain a vital tool for controlling the pandemic." 

However, Tedros stressed that though vital, testing is only part of the strategy against COVID-19. 

"Testing is the spotlight that shows where the virus is. Investments in testing must be matched by investments in isolation facilities, clinical care, protecting health workers, contact tracing, cluster investigation and supported quarantine", he stated.

Physical Activity 

This week WHO published new guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behaviour.

Physical activity is essential for physical and mental health throughout life.But one in four adults, and four in five adolescents don't get enough physical activity.

The new guidelines recommend between 150 and 300 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per week for all adults, and an average of 60 minutes per day for children and adolescents.

COVID-19 has resulted in restrictions of many types – but everyone can remain active, whether that's doing a workout at home or going out for a walk, a run or a ride. 

It's one way all of us can add years to life and life to years. Every move counts.