Several countries have chosen to shut down large sections of society and put the population in the home quarantine as a result of the spread of the corona virus. Sweden has chosen a different route, which has aroused reactions worldwide.  

- There has been so much about Sweden in foreign media so you felt that you need to explain and give an in-depth picture, says Sara Brynedal, at the Foreign Ministry's press job. 

On Friday morning, Foreign Minister Ann Linde (S) therefore held a press conference together with Social Minister Lena Hallengren (S) and Director of Public Health Johan Carlson. 

- I note that there is a picture that Sweden has acted radically differently in this crisis compared to other countries. I don't share that picture, says Lena Hallengren.

"We can live like this until 2022"

Sweden has acted differently in two ways, she said. By not closing schools and by not imposing rules that force people to stay home. However, Sweden has recommendations that are addressed to the public - the most important of which is social distancing, according to the Minister of Social Affairs.

While other countries have gone into so-called "lock down" and now have to think about how to open up society again, Sweden has a model that can work for a long time, said Johan Carlson of the Public Health Authority. 

- We can live like this until 2022 if we have to, he says. 

- I am more concerned about countries that have closed down completely and do not see an improvement.

"Hard to travel after June 15"

At one point, however, Sweden's strategy has been less successful, according to Carlson: When it comes to the infection taking on elderly housing in Sweden. 

- The preparation for the country's elderly housing was probably not good enough. It is an experience we share with several countries. 

Foreign Minister Ann Linde (S) also received questions about the Swedish travel recommendations, which are valid until 15 June.  

- Then we will re-evaluate. But we believe it will continue to be extremely difficult to travel to much of the world after June 15.