Seen from a virus angle, Anders Nystedt says that the infection rates are still "very high".
Despite the fact that the general sampling has ceased, it is possible to interpret the spread on the basis of high sickness absence.
- It is different in different municipalities and activities.
But the feeling is that it peaked last week and is about to turn around.
In the rest of Sweden, you definitely see that trend and following the previous pattern, we may lag a few weeks behind, he says.
Still strained in healthcare
Healthcare and care remain strained.
Partly due to the continued high sickness absence among the staff - and partly because many need to be cared for in hospital.
- This applies to both patients who are ill with covid-19 but also those who are only carriers of the virus and require special efforts, says Nystedt.
Since the restrictions were lifted, Nystedt is positive about the future.
He thinks that ordinary people from Norrbotten have handled the transition carefully.
- Many continue to be careful and it is very wise!
The restrictions in the community did some good in the end, it was not in the restaurant or in the cinema that the infection spread.
"Do not forget the most important restriction"
Anders Nystedt further says that he, and certainly many others, feel that the air feels easier to breathe today.
- But we must not forget the absolutely most important restriction.
Stay at home if you are ill, he says and hopes that more people will apply to the vaccine clinics:
- The vaccine has saved many from both serious illness and death - and continues to do so.
But the immunity after vaccines and illness is quite short-lived, so our immune system needs a few doses before we can feel safe in the boat again.