Globally, more than 3 million new cases and 10 000 deaths have been reported in the week of 26 December 2022 to 1 January 2023. This represents a reduction in weekly cases and deaths of 22% and 12%, respectively. In the last 28 days (5 December 2022 to 1 January 2023), over 14.5 million cases and over 46 000 new fatalities were reported globally – an increase of 25% and 21%, respectively, compared to the previous 28 days. As of 1 January 2023, over 656 million confirmed cases and over 6.6 million deaths have been reported globally. In this edition, we include: The COVID-19 epidemiological update at the global and regional levels. An update on the circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) and Omicron subvariants under monitoring. An update on hospitalizations and ICU admissions related to COVID-19.