- We interpret it as meaning that it may be due to omicrons, but we do not have data at the moment so we can say that this is the case, says Britt Åkerlind, infection control doctor in the Östergötland Region.
In recent days, several regions have reported a rampant infection and even in Östergötland a sharp increase is now being seen.
- We are seeing a rising curve in all of Sweden right now, says Britt Åkerlind.
May result in more in hospitals
More and more people are being tested positive for covid- 19, but it is still at relatively the same level when it comes to people who are in need of hospital care.
However, the increased spread of infection can result in more people being hospitalized.
- We do not know if the increased rapid spread of infection can result in more people in hospitals, so it is worrying, says Britt Åkerlind.
It is mainly Christmas and New Year's weekend that have meant an increased spread of infection, she continues.
- It is mainly at private gatherings during Christmas and New Year that people have been infected, says Britt Åkerlind.
Time consuming analysis
So far, there have been two established cases of omicron in Östergötland, but since the analysis for the variant is time-consuming, it is probably many more.
- There can be many many more, says Britt Åkerlind and adds that the analysis capacity for omicrons is saturated throughout the country and that it is random selection that is tested for the variant.