Sweden: Authorities extend nationwide COVID-19-related restrictions as of Jan. 24 /update 10

Event

Authorities in Sweden have extended a series of coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-related restrictions through at least Feb. 7 following a rise in the number of cases. Officials have urged all nonessential public services to remain closed through Feb. 7. Bars and restaurants must suspend alcohol sales after 2000. Authorities have also extended distance learning for the upper secondary schools through April 1.

Authorities have prohibited travel from the UK and Denmark through at least Jan. 31 due to a new COVID-19 variant active in these countries. Exceptions to this travel ban include Swedish nationals, transport workers, travel for urgent family reasons, and individuals who live or work in Sweden. Exempted travelers arriving from the UK must possess a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before arrival in Sweden.

Officials have also banned all nonessential travel from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland through at least March 31. In line with EU recommendations, authorities permit travelers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, 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 EEA and Switzerland.

Within Sweden, authorities have banned public gatherings and events of more than eight people; funerals can occur with up to 20 attendees. Officials allow a maximum of four people per table at bars or restaurants, though they prohibit alcohol sales from 2000. Nonessential public buildings, including bathhouses, museums, and sports halls, are closed until Feb. 7. Authorities continue to recommend the use of facemasks on public transport during rush hour. Travel providers have also implemented strict hygiene and social-distancing measures on their services. Shops, catering establishments, and many nonessential businesses are open, though they must limit customer numbers and comply with social-distancing guidelines.

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.

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.

Resources

Emergency Information from Swedish Authorities
Public Health Agency of Sweden
World Health Organization (WHO)