Seven out of every 10 global deaths and six out of every 10 cases of COVID-19 are in Europe, according to the World Health Organization.

Europe has now had more than 220,000 confirmed cases and 12,000 deaths as a result of the virus.

In a briefing for journalists, the WHO also said that one in 10 infections are in healthcare workers, severely affecting their ability to help treat patients.

It warned that urgent action is required to help protect healthcare workers who are fighting the virus.

However, the WHO noted that Italy's rate of infection has slowed slightly from previous days and there are fewer new deaths in Spain.

The body also addressed mental health issues and said it is natural to feel stress, anxiety and fear during these times.

Officials are calling on governments to put public health, whether that be physical or mental, at the top of their priorities.