Sharp increase in covid-19 cases in Skåne – almost time to vaccinate 60-64-year-olds

On Wednesday, 752 newly identified cases of covid-19 were reported in Skåne, a sharp increase since Tuesday when there were 260 new cases. Despite this, the pressure on the intensive care unit is the second-lowest in the country in terms of the number of inhabitants.

There is currently an increasing number of infections seen mainly among children aged 0-9 years old. Often, they’ve had no symptoms. The number of cases among those aged 80 and older are few – probably an effect of the vaccinations.

Region Skåne stated in a press conference on Wednesday that the spread of infection has reached a plateau, but remains high in Skåne. In one week, 3,750 new infections have been reported, that is an average of approximately 536 cases per day.

– The more that people get vaccinated, the greater the chance we have of avoiding a third wave in Skåne, says Infection Control Doctor Eva Melander.

Vaccinations continue. But Region Skåne has decided: "As far as possible, those who are aged 65 and older will be vaccinated with Vaxzevria."

Vaxzevria is the new name of Astra Zeneca's vaccine. Folkhälsomyndigheten (the Public Health Agency of Sweden) maintains its decision that people under the age of 65 should receive another type of vaccine.

Those under the age of 65 who have already received the first dose of Astra Zeneca's will be offered a second dose of Pfizer's or Moderna's vaccine.

Region Skåne has issued a clear message.

– You will not be able to choose a vaccine, says Vaccine Coordinator Maria Landgren.

Next week (17), 60-64-year-olds will have their vaccination letters posted home to them. They can then start booking appointments for vaccinations which will take place no earlier than 3rd May.