The world's eyes were once again directed at Sweden during the World Health Organization's daily press meeting. WHO Chief Michael J Ryan was asked about Sweden's strategy and whether Sweden can cope better with a second wave of contagion because there have not been as strict measures as many other countries. 

- Sweden has not failed to control covid-19. They have a very strong strategic approach in controlling infection across all parts of society. What has been done differently is that one really, really relied on one's own population to implement the physical distance and it remains to be seen whether it will be fully successful or not, he said.

"A model for the future"

WHO believes that Sweden's strategy can be a model for the future. 

"I believe that if we are to reach a new normal situation, Sweden can in many ways represent a model for the future," said Michael J Ryan. 

When the countries of the world re-open their societies, we will have to adapt to a period where our physical and social relationships are limited by the presence of the virus, says Michael J Ryan. And there Sweden is a role model.

- It will mean an adaptation of our way of life, and I think that in Sweden they see how to do it in real time.

The medical service received praise

During the press conference, healthcare in Sweden was also raised as a positive example.  

- They have implemented public health policy in partnership with the population. They have tested, increased the capacity of intensive care quite significantly, and their health systems have always stayed within their capacity to cope with the cases they have had, said Michael J Ryan. 

The fact that a large proportion of deaths linked to covid-19 occurred in elderly housing in Sweden was also raised, but according to the WHO chief, it is not unique to Sweden. 

- Like many other countries in Europe, Sweden has had many infection clusters on the elderly, but unfortunately and tragically, this is not unique in Europe. Many countries across Europe have had similar tragedies in recent months and this is something that really needs to be carefully looked at.