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The number of confirmed cases of covid-19 in Sweden continues to rise.
– It could be an early start to a proper autumn/winter peak, says state epidemiologist Magnus Gisslén.
The Public Health Authority’s latest weekly report on the covid situation in the country showed a rising curve over the number of confirmed cases. By then, the number of cases had increased by 38 percent compared to the previous week.
The new report will be presented on Friday, but Magnus Gisslén says it will follow the same pattern.
– We see a continued increase in the number of new cases in the last week in a corresponding way. But the increase is still at fairly low levels. Percentagewise, there will be big changes, but if you look at absolute numbers, they are not huge, he tells TT.
More in hospital
The number of people admitted to hospital with covid-19 also continues to increase, but even there these are low levels.
– There are regional differences. In some regions, there has been a clear increase in the number of admissions, says Magnus Gisslén.
Among other things, this applies to Region Värmland and Västernorrland.
The question is what will happen now. The recent increase in the number of cases may be the beginning of a sharp peak for the fall and winter.
– But it can also level off and then become a further increase a little later this winter, says Magnus Gisslén.
Regardless, it is fairly certain that there will be a bigger rise at some point during the autumn or winter, he points out.
Vaccination is important
On November 7, the year’s major vaccination drive begins, when vaccinations against covid-19 and against seasonal flu are offered.
Those who are recommended to be vaccinated are people older than 65 and people younger than 65 who belong to any risk group, this also includes pregnant women.
– The vaccination reduces the risk of becoming seriously ill, says Magnus Gisslén.
He says that the vaccinations have already started in special housing for the elderly. Some regions have also started vaccinating the elderly.