In view of a possible third wave of infections, Sweden is tightening its coronavirus measures. From March 1st, cafes, bars and restaurants should only open until 8.30 p.m., said Prime Minister Stefan Löfven yesterday. The number of customers in shops and fitness studios will be limited. “There is a significant risk of what is known as a third wave. All of our actions determine whether it comes to that, ”said Löfven.
The day before, the Stockholm authorities had already recommended wearing a face mask in public transport and in rooms in which sufficient distance cannot be maintained. The tighter restrictions should help keep schools open for as long as possible, said Education Minister Anna Ekström. „Schools should be the last thing we close and the first thing we open.“
Sweden took a different path in the pandemic than most other European countries and was also criticized for it. A strict lockdown was never imposed, instead the authorities relied on distance rules and the wearing of masks.
Recently, however, the authorities tightened the measures in view of the increasing number of cases. Among other things, the sale of alcohol after 8 p.m. and gatherings of more than eight people were banned.
