UN health chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says young people around the world must face the reality that the novel coronavirus attacks them in large numbers, not only older generations.
“You are not invincible. This virus could put you in hospital for weeks or even kill you,” the World Health Organization (WHO) director general said in Geneva.
The pandemic, which has resulted in more than 210,000 confirmed infections and 9,000 reported deaths requires not only cooperation among countries but also among generations, Tedros stressed.
“I’m grateful that so many young people are spreading the word and not the virus,” the WHO chief said, commending young people who are protecting elders by protecting themselves.
Tedros also sent out a message to the millions who are forced to stay indoors as their authorities have imposed various forms of lockdowns.
Confined people should take extra care to eat healthy food, to avoid tobacco and alcohol, and to take good care of their bodies and minds.
“If you can’t leave the house, find an exercise video online, dance to music, do some yoga, or walk up and down the stairs,” the Ethiopian UN health chief said.