At present, there is no compensation for one who belongs to a risk group for covid-19 but is healthy enough to work. Pharmacy employees are extra vulnerable, according to Sweden's Pharmacists, because they risk meeting sick people, while there is little opportunity for home work.

- We have no other duties for staff. I am worried. It is a little limboland, says Karin Gummesson, chair of the pharmacy section.

Waiting for message from the government

The government is working on a proposal to solve the problem, but when it will be is not yet clear. Karin Gummesson believes that the lack of guidelines on possible compensation will have major consequences for those affected. 

- There are not many people involved, but they must have something to live on.

Many pharmacies now have plexiglass in front of the cash registers and markings on the floor for customers to keep their distance. And anyone who is ill is invited to send an agent.

- People come to us when they're sick, that's a problem, says Karin Gummesson.

"May take the infection home"

The National Board of Health not only recommends the risk groups to stay at home, but also those who live in the same household as someone who belongs to a risk group. There is concern among people in that group, according to Karin Gummesson.

- It's not very fun to work in pharmacies and risk taking the infection home.

At the same time, pharmacy employees, who live with someone who is ill in covid-19, are worried about having to go to work and meet customers, whom they could potentially infect. The guidelines from the employer are that anyone who is healthy should go to work. 

- It's very strange. Even if you do it yourself, we have quite a few crazy customers. It is a stress and worry, and when you lift it you are told that you can take a vacation or leave without pay. It is not sustainable.