Photographer: Mikael Sjoberg / Bloomberg
Photographer: Mikael Sjoberg / Bloomberg
Authorities in Stockholm and several other regions in Sweden are abandoning their previous skepticism and advising people to rely more on face masks as the country prepares for a third wave of coronavirus infections.
The development marks a reversal of Sweden’s earlier doubts about facial coatings and coincides with an increase in transmission rates. On Tuesday, Stockholm authorities recommended wearing masks on public transport, not just during rush hour, but at all times. They also want coatings for use in stores and offices.
SWEDEN INSIGHT: New Strain virus added to Caseload – Dashboard
New wave?
Stockholm sees worsening Covid trends
Sources: Swedish Public Health Agency, Stockholm Region
The number of new coronavirus cases rose 27% last week in the Swedish capital, which not long ago saw its intensive care resources being pushed to the limit. The relentlessness of the virus has prompted the Swedish government to reconsider its non-intervention approach, and parliament enacted legislation last month to allow for tougher restrictions on the pandemic.
Sweden’s position on the masks has been controversial, with state epidemiologist Anders Tegnell repeatedly questioning their effectiveness. But after nearly a year of intense debate, these coverages are expected to become more widespread in the most populous nation in Scandinavia.
“We need to greatly increase the use of a face mask,” said infection control officer Maria Rotzen Ostlund. “But disposable masks are just a complement, and the most important thing is to keep your distance.”
Debate about Sweden’s mask …
The Swedish Public Health Agency has long questioned the science behind face masks as an effective tool during a pandemic and has warned that such coverings can create a false sense of security that can lead people to become compliant with detachment guidelines. Social. But that view has been criticized by critics, including the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, which published a report to support the use of face masks as a significant way to stop transmission.
Why Sweden tightened its light touch Covid Rules: QuickTake
– With the help of Charles Daly
(Adds the most recent infection data to the chart)