Omicron outbreak after Christmas table - Norway tightens measures

Those infected in the outbreak must have had mild symptoms and it is currently unclear how many cases will consist of the omicron variant.

The Christmas table guests must have been fully vaccinated and received the invitation to test themselves in advance, something the Norwegian Institute of Public Health believes shows that omikron has a great potential for spread, writes Norwegian VG.

Due to the delta variant, the pressure on healthcare in the country is already high, which worries the experts.

The combination of these factors increases the risk that further spread of omicrons may now quickly lead to congestion in healthcare, even though the virus may not increase the disease rate.

The outbreak of omicrons in Norway is therefore considered serious ", writes the Norwegian Directorate of Health, corresponding to the National Board of Health and Welfare in Sweden.

Test requirements to cross the border

Due to the omicron infection, the Norwegian government is now tightening measures against corona.

These are partly regional measures for Oslo, Asker, Bærum, Grue Kongsvinger, Nord-Odal, Sør-Odal and Gjerdrum:

There, mouth guards must be worn when a meter distance can not be kept, homework is recommended and a maximum ceiling of 100 people for private events is introduced.

Requirements for table service at restaurants are reintroduced in these regions.

The country is also tightening its entry rules and from Friday, it is required that everyone who crosses the Norwegian border tests for covid-19 within 24 hours.

In national councils, the government urges adults to keep their distance and avoid hugs and handshakes.

Adults are also asked to consider whether they can reduce the number of close contacts and workplaces throughout the country are encouraged to facilitate homework where possible.

- We are also announcing financial measures to limit the consequences of the restrictions, says Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

In Sweden, six cases of omicron have been confirmed, and the Swedish Public Health Agency has warned that certain restrictions may need to be reintroduced if the spread of infection continues to increase.