Samples taken by researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) from wastewater show an increase in coronavirus. In Östersund, Gävle, Uppsala, Kalmar, Helsingborg, and Göteborg, the virus has increased the most, according to reports to DN.
The samples are consistent with the picture of the virus's increase, according to state epidemiologist Magnus Gisslén, who is also an infectious disease doctor and professor at Sahlgrenska University Hospital.
It reflects quite well how much covid is circulating. We also see an increase in confirmed cases, the number of people who need hospital care, and the number of deaths after a covid infection, he says to TT.
According to the Public Health Agency's latest statistics, there are approximately 600 confirmed cases per week, of which around 200 people need hospital care.
Important to test
Runny nose, cough, sore throat, and a little fever, like a cold. These are the most common symptoms of covid. But then it goes away. Therefore, most people no longer need to be vaccinated, according to Magnus Gisslén.
But for groups where there is a risk of becoming seriously ill, vaccinations are very important. Existing evidence clearly shows that those who are vaccinated have a significantly lower risk of becoming seriously ill and dying from the infection.
In contrast to others, there is also a strong reason for these people to test themselves if they suspect covid.
The reason is that there are antiviral medications to reduce the risk of serious illness for those who really have an increased risk, says Magnus Gisslén.
Study on vaccine
In total, vaccines, according to a study from the World Health Organization (WHO), have saved at least 1.6 million lives in Europe, of which almost 20,000 in Sweden, writes Läkemedelsvärlden.
The vaccination recommendation is twice a year for people over 80 years old and those over 65 years old with daily care needs, such as home care, according to Magnus Gisslén.
The regions' work on autumn vaccination will start in mid-October with a co-vaccination of the influenza vaccine for people over 65 years old and for people under 65 years old with an increased risk of serious illness. For these groups, one vaccination per year is recommended.
For those who are younger and do not belong to any risk group, there is the possibility to vaccinate themselves against a fee. Otherwise, it's a matter of common sense and protecting vulnerable groups from getting infected, reminds Gisslén.
