Sweden: Authorities maintaining COVID-19 measures as of Dec. 18 /update 7

Sweden maintaining existing COVID-19 measures as of Dec. 18; international entry restrictions in place through Dec. 22.

Event

Authorities in Sweden are maintaining the country's existing measures imposed to stem the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as of Dec. 18. International entry restrictions remain in effect until at least Dec. 22; all nonessential travel from outside the EU, EEA, and the UK is banned. In line with EU recommendations, authorities are also permitting travelers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, and Uruguay to enter. Exceptions to the ban include students, healthcare workers, cross-border workers, diplomats, freight workers, passengers in transit, and persons traveling on urgent family business. The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to advise against all nonessential travel to countries outside the EU and EEA, with the exception of the UK.

Within Sweden, individuals are permitted to travel without restriction, provided they are not displaying symptoms of COVID-19. Travel providers have implemented strict hygiene and social distancing measures on their services. Shops, catering establishments, and cultural sites are open, though they must limit the number of customers and comply with social-distancing guidelines. Bars and restaurants may not serve alcohol after 2200. Public gatherings are limited to eight people.

Persons displaying symptoms of COVID-19 must self-isolate for at least seven days from the date symptoms first appeared. Persons should have no fever for at least two full days before ending self-isolation.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Postpone travel if affected by travel restrictions. Confirm flight status before checking out of accommodation and departing for the airport. Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.