Oral protection is reintroduced in hospital care in Västmanland - covid cases are increasing

The Swedish Public Health Agency estimates that the number of covid cases will reach a peak in mid-August.

But already now an increase in cases is visible.

On July 4, 42 people tested positive for covid-19 through their own sampling in Västmanland, figures from the region show.

That was the highest figure since April.

- Slightly more patients are now admitted with covid-19 to the hospital in Västerås, but not to IVA so far.

Stricter oral protection rules are also important to keep our staff as healthy as possible and avoid unnecessary sick leave during holidays, says Ingrid Selmeryd, acting infection control doctor in the Västmanland region in a press release.

New omikron variant

The increase in the number of covid cases is due to the new omicron variant BA.5.

- Even though there are many indications that you do not get as ill as with previous covid waves, it is important to tighten the mouth protection rules again, not least because there are so many old and weak in care, says Ingrid Selmeryd.