Speaking to Sky News' Kay Burley on Wednesday, Robb Butler, Executive Director of the WHO said if over 95-percent of Europeans masked up lives will be saved and transmission of the virus would plummet dramatically. It comes as the WHO have warned Europe could see "over 500,000" deaths by next Spring if the continent continues at the current rate of rocketing Covid transmission.

       Mr Butler said: “If we sought 95 percent mask use we'd see over 160,000 lives saved."

       He also noted how a recent study in the British Medical Journal showed how “53 percent” of virus transmission is prevented through mask use as he emphasised the importance of face coverings.

       The WHO Executive Director went on to say how his organisation “are very alarmed” and that the half a million death figures are “really worrisome” as the continent charges towards the new year.

       While a warning to leaders, he noted how the impact will have far-reaching effects on public health, the economy and put huge strain on hospitals and intensive care units.

       He added how the situation in Europe with low vaccination rates has left the WHO "very concerned".

       Mr Butler said: "In the European region… only 54 percent of the population of this region are vaccinated.

       "There is so much work to be done yet."

       The bug expert added Europe will have a "worrisome season ahead” if no direct action to stem infection rates are put in place.

       More to follow...