World Health Organization warns virus spreading fast despite progress on vaccines; French infections rise to 2.29 million; Brazil reports 627 new deaths

From Associated Press:

Setting a sharp contrast with President Donald Trump, whose administration began with a fight over the size of his inaugural crowds, President-elect Joe Biden said on Friday he plans a scaled-back event for safety’s sake during the pandemic.

To everyone who is struggling, I promise you help is on the way. pic.twitter.com/uDcagQAJd2

Along with the US, Italy is facing a surge in Covid-19 cases and struggling to cope with the rising number of deaths.

Italy has imposed some of the harshest Christmas rules in Europe amid calls from some scientists for more sober festivities as it overcomes a severe second coronavirus wave and tries to avoid a third one.

Related: Italians decry Christmas Covid travel ban as ‘slap in the face’

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