Stricter Covid-19 recommendations for three Swedish regions

People in Stockholm, Västra Götaland and Östergötland are advised against visiting malls, museums, bathhouses, gyms, and sports events, and interacting socially

Responding to the accelerating spread of the coronavirus, the Swedish Public Health Agency and local infection control centres have issued stricter general advice to the population and visitors of the regions of Stockholm, Västra Götaland and Östergötland. The recommendations are valid until November 19, but can be extended if necessary.

Alarming spread of infection

Sweden, known for its unique, controversial way of managing the Covid-19 crisis through health recommendations instead of crippling enforced lockdowns, is now feeling the heat of the second coronavirus wave, like the rest of Europe. According to data provided by krisinformation.se, since last week, the number of diagnosed cases of Covid-19 in Stockholm region alone has increased by almost 80 percent and the number of patients in need of hospital care has gone up by about 60 percent.

To stem this tide, from 29 October, everyone staying in the regions of Stockholm, Västra Götaland and Östergötland is asked to:

• Refrain from staying in enclosed environments such as shops, malls, museums, libraries, bathhouses and gyms. This does not apply to essential visits, for example to grocery stores and pharmacies.
• Refrain from participating in meetings, concerts, performances, sports training sessions, matches and competitions. Sports training for children and young people born in 2005 or later can continue, however.
• If possible, avoid having physical contact with people other than those you live with. Do not arrange or participate in a party or similar social gathering.

No explicit advice has been given regarding inevitable close contact, such as during care home visits and medical examinations. However, it is important to keep in mind that anyone with symptoms that may be Covid-19 should avoid any close contact with others.

There are stricter general guidelines for businesses operating in the three regions as well. Shops, shopping malls and sports facilities are told to ensure that recommendations are followed, including by limiting the number of customers. Employers should allow staff to work from home where possible, and postpone business trips, conferences and other physical meetings.

The 50 person attendance limit remains

Similar local restrictions have already been introduced in Uppsala and Skåne and will be valid until 17 November, depending on the situation. The regional councils in Uppsala, Västra Götaland and Ostergötland have also decided to keep the audience limit of 50 people until 17, 19 and 22 November respectively, with the possibility of extension.