omicron variant, Europe’s coronavirus battle was on shaky ground. Cases surging at a record pace, hospitalizations and deaths on the rise — it’s setting up to be a nightmare winter for the continent yet again.
The omicron mutation has added an extra layer of uncertainty, but the continent’s immediate problem is grappling with the wave of infections that’s already put countries back into lockdown.
Germany’s government on Thursday became the latest to ramp up its response, putting stringent restrictions on the unvaccinated and may even make shots compulsory.
Austria has already proposed mandatory vaccinations, while other countries plan to fine those who refuse. The drastic steps are a response to a drastic situation.