Since Sweden reached the peak of the second wave just before Christmas, there has been a gradual decline in new cases of infection - until now.

- The measures we received on the spot seem to have had a dampening effect.

But it is a little worrying that the declining trend has stopped, says Anders Tegnell.

More local outbreaks

A clear change that has arisen in February is that the distribution is now more uneven across the country.

- For a while it was quite similar, all regions moved more or less downwards.

Now it's a bit up and down in different places.

One of the worst affected regions is Västerbotten, which has seen a sharp rise in the past week.

- We have had special discussions with Västerbotten.

They will take a wide range of measures to stop this spread of infection.

Some of the cases are linked to a workplace in Skellefteå.

From there, the infection has since continued to spread in society.

- Extensive measures have been taken at the workplace and in Västerbotten as a whole, says Anders Tegnell.

Many elderly people have been vaccinated

Vaccination continues, even though deliveries are still lower than expected.

So far, the focus has been on the oldest and most at-risk groups, says Anders Tegnell.

In special housing for the elderly, at least 75 per cent have now received a first dose and 29.5 per cent have received two doses.

Among people with home care, 25 per cent have received a first dose, while 1.5 per cent have received two doses.

In total, more than 300,000 Swedes have received a first dose.

- This is very positive news that so many who are worst affected by this pandemic have now received really good protection, says Anders Tegnel.

Stay at home after a trip abroad

A number of new rules linked to stays abroad have come into place in recent days.

All foreign nationals must be able to present a negative covid test.

The Swedish Public Health Agency also recommends that everyone who has traveled abroad stay at home for at least seven days after returning home.

- It is now more than ever based on us staying home when we are sick, working from home as much as possible, keeping our distance and getting vaccinated when given the opportunity, says Tegnell.