After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions&nbsp; on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-chief-claims-vaccine-works-against-new-strain-of-coronavirus-352737">AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus</a>

This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine,"&nbsp;Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference.

The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines.

Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-launches-mass-covid-19-vaccination-drive-352837">WATCH|</a>

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As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint".

Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths.

The announcement has also come at a time when the European Union countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country. The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft. Also read| AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine," Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference. The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines. Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus. WATCH| × As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint". Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths. The announcement has also come at a time when the European Union countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

Sweden imposes stricter COVID-19 regulations amid fear of new variant

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions&nbsp; on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-chief-claims-vaccine-works-against-new-strain-of-coronavirus-352737">AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus</a>

This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine,"&nbsp;Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference.

The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines.

Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-launches-mass-covid-19-vaccination-drive-352837">WATCH|</a>

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As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint".

Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths.

The announcement has also come at a time when the European Un ion countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country. The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft. Also read| AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine," Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference. The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines. Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus. WATCH| × As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint". Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths. The announcement has also come at a time when the European Un ion countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

The Swedish government on Thursday urged its citizens protesting on the streets to take it out on the internet rather than stepping out and violating coronavirus restrictions.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, demonstrators with signs like "Black Lives Matter" gathered at a Stockholm square for several hours to protest against racism and American police force for the murder of George Floyd.&nbsp;

COVID-hit Sweden has banned public gatherings of more than 50 people. Despite overcoming the peak in April, health resources in the country are still strained.&nbsp;

Sweden's Home Affairs Minister Mikael Damberg said that demonstration is a democratic right of the citizens but due to the pandemic, guidelines set by health agency must be respected. In a letter written to Reuters, he said: "I would urge anyone who wants to protest against racism to use digital media instead. Otherwise, many people risk getting sick and dying."

Sweden has seen over 4,500 casualties due to the coronavirus pandemic which is way more than any neighbouring Nordic countries.&nbsp;

The protests intensified in the United States, which are held over the killing of a black man by a cop who held him on the ground with his knee on the handcuffed man.&nbsp;

There were clashes between police and protesters, arson, looting, and firing of tear gas.

The Swedish government on Thursday urged its citizens protesting on the streets to take it out on the internet rather than stepping out and violating coronavirus restrictions.

The Swedish government on Thursday urged its citizens protesting on the streets to take it out on the internet rather than stepping out and violating coronavirus restrictions. On Wednesday, demonstrators with signs like "Black Lives Matter" gathered at a Stockholm square for several hours to protest against racism and American police force for the murder of George Floyd. COVID-hit Sweden has banned public gatherings of more than 50 people. Despite overcoming the peak in April, health resources in the country are still strained. Sweden's Home Affairs Minister Mikael Damberg said that demonstration is a democratic right of the citizens but due to the pandemic, guidelines set by health agency must be respected. In a letter written to Reuters, he said: "I would urge anyone who wants to protest against racism to use digital media instead. Otherwise, many people risk getting sick and dying." Sweden has seen over 4,500 casualties due to the coronavirus pandemic which is way more than any neighbouring Nordic countries. The protests intensified in the United States, which are held over the killing of a black man by a cop who held him on the ground with his knee on the handcuffed man. There were clashes between police and protesters, arson, looting, and firing of tear gas.

Sweden urges its demonstrating citizens to take it on internet rather than coming out on streets

After criticism over "soft" approach towards <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-rejects-report-that-it-delayed-sharing-coronavirus-information-with-who-302900">coronavirus</a>, Sweden's top epidemiologist Anders Tegnell acknowledged that the country could have handled the crisis better.

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"If we were to encounter the same disease with everything we know about it today, I think we would end up doing something in between what Sweden and the rest of the world has done," Tegnell said, adding,"it would be good to know more precisely what you should shut down to better prevent a spread of the infection."

The country's opposition parties had earlier demanded independent commission to probe the response to the virus. Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven, however, asserted that he would appoint a commission but after the pandemic was over

There have been over 38,000 cases in the country with over 4,400 deaths even as the toll in other European countries namely Italy and Spain has been far higher, however, Swedish authorities were blamed initially for not imposing a strict lockdown even as schools for under-16s remained open including restaurants and bars.

Tegnell stated that the casualty rate of other European countries was "absolutely too high"&nbsp;

Sweden did however impose a ban on public gathering and visits to nursing homes amid the rising number of cases in the country.

After criticism over "soft" approach towards coronavirus, Sweden's top epidemiologist Anders Tegnell acknowledged that the country could have handled the crisis better.

After criticism over "soft" approach towards coronavirus, Sweden's top epidemiologist Anders Tegnell acknowledged that the country could have handled the crisis better. Watch Video: "If we were to encounter the same disease with everything we know about it today, I think we would end up doing something in between what Sweden and the rest of the world has done," Tegnell said, adding,"it would be good to know more precisely what you should shut down to better prevent a spread of the infection." The country's opposition parties had earlier demanded independent commission to probe the response to the virus. Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven, however, asserted that he would appoint a commission but after the pandemic was over There have been over 38,000 cases in the country with over 4,400 deaths even as the toll in other European countries namely Italy and Spain has been far higher, however, Swedish authorities were blamed initially for not imposing a strict lockdown even as schools for under-16s remained open including restaurants and bars. Tegnell stated that the casualty rate of other European countries was "absolutely too high" Sweden did however impose a ban on public gathering and visits to nursing homes amid the rising number of cases in the country.

Sweden's top epidemiologist admits 'in between' approach on COVID-19 could have worked better

Sweden has not reported any coronavirus related deaths in the past 24 hours. This has happened for the first time since March 13, as per health authorities' statement on Sunday, but the country's&nbsp;weekend figures are typically delayed&nbsp;.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sweden's response to coronavirus has been criticised by some as it is purely based on social distancing and personal hygiene.&nbsp;

Last week, Sweden reported the highest number of coronavirus deaths in Europe per capita over seven days, as per the data.&nbsp;

The pandemic has killed 4,395 people in Sweden.

The number of coronavirus cases worldwide topped six million Sunday, with Brazil registering another record surge in daily infections.

Latin American countries are bracing for difficult weeks ahead as the disease spreads rapidly across the region, even as much of the world exit lockdowns that have wrecked economies and stripped millions of their jobs, according to AFP.

In Brazil -- the epicentre of South America's outbreak with nearly 500,000 confirmed cases, lagging only behind the United States -- disagreement among leaders over lockdown measures has hampered efforts to slow the virus as the number of fatalities in the country nears 30,000.

President Jair Bolsonaro, who fears the economic fallout from stay-at-home measures will be worse than the virus, has berated governors and mayors for imposing what he calls "the tyranny of total quarantine".&nbsp;

As the global death toll from the pandemic surpassed 368,000, US President Donald Trump's decision to permanently cut funding to the World Health Organization has been broadly criticised.

Sweden has not reported any coronavirus related deaths in the past 24 hours. This has happened for the first time since March 13, as per health authorities' statement on Sunday, but the country's weekend figures are typically delayed .

Sweden has not reported any coronavirus related deaths in the past 24 hours. This has happened for the first time since March 13, as per health authorities' statement on Sunday, but the country's weekend figures are typically delayed . Sweden's response to coronavirus has been criticised by some as it is purely based on social distancing and personal hygiene. Last week, Sweden reported the highest number of coronavirus deaths in Europe per capita over seven days, as per the data. The pandemic has killed 4,395 people in Sweden. The number of coronavirus cases worldwide topped six million Sunday, with Brazil registering another record surge in daily infections. Latin American countries are bracing for difficult weeks ahead as the disease spreads rapidly across the region, even as much of the world exit lockdowns that have wrecked economies and stripped millions of their jobs, according to AFP. In Brazil -- the epicentre of South America's outbreak with nearly 500,000 confirmed cases, lagging only behind the United States -- disagreement among leaders over lockdown measures has hampered efforts to slow the virus as the number of fatalities in the country nears 30,000. President Jair Bolsonaro, who fears the economic fallout from stay-at-home measures will be worse than the virus, has berated governors and mayors for imposing what he calls "the tyranny of total quarantine". As the global death toll from the pandemic surpassed 368,000, US President Donald Trump's decision to permanently cut funding to the World Health Organization has been broadly criticised.

Coronavirus: Sweden reports no deaths, but weekend figures typically delayed

Sweden reported over 4,000 deaths due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-records-second-highest-covid-19-cases-as-bolsonaro-downplays-it-as-little-flu-300970">coronavirus</a> amid&nbsp;reports of "soft approach"&nbsp;towards the pandemic with several European countries imposing stringent lockdowns.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-still-combating-coronavirus-china-reports-51-new-cases-300908">Also Read:&nbsp;Wuhan still combating coronavirus; China reports 51 new cases</a>

The country recorded 4,029 deaths and 33,843 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus, health authorities said.

Sweden's Prime Minister Stefan Lofven had earlier said that "this fight against COVID-19 is a marathon," as authorities told residents to holiday from home and extended non-essential travel advisory till July 15.

However, the country hasn't imposed lockdown rules like the rest of Europe, allowing children under-16 to go to school although social distancing norms have also been enforced in the country with the approach based on the "principle of responsibility".

Authorities had earlier said that they would extend testing for milder symptoms including to those involved in critical services.

Health Minister Lena Hallengren had said that, "we can't have a situation where people stay at home at the slightest symptom if they don't need to be home."

However, testing has been difficult ever since the country announced plans last month with the testing coordinator Harriet Wallberg declaring, "the testing capacity is there, but there are still difficulties with the logistics around it."

The government had earlier said it would be carrying out testing for 100,000 people a week, but it has struggled to keep up the numbers.

Sweden reported over 4,000 deaths due to coronavirus amid reports of "soft approach" towards the pandemic with several European countries imposing stringent lockdowns.

Sweden reported over 4,000 deaths due to coronavirus amid reports of "soft approach" towards the pandemic with several European countries imposing stringent lockdowns. Also Read: Wuhan still combating coronavirus; China reports 51 new cases The country recorded 4,029 deaths and 33,843 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus, health authorities said. Sweden's Prime Minister Stefan Lofven had earlier said that "this fight against COVID-19 is a marathon," as authorities told residents to holiday from home and extended non-essential travel advisory till July 15. However, the country hasn't imposed lockdown rules like the rest of Europe, allowing children under-16 to go to school although social distancing norms have also been enforced in the country with the approach based on the "principle of responsibility". Authorities had earlier said that they would extend testing for milder symptoms including to those involved in critical services. Health Minister Lena Hallengren had said that, "we can't have a situation where people stay at home at the slightest symptom if they don't need to be home." However, testing has been difficult ever since the country announced plans last month with the testing coordinator Harriet Wallberg declaring, "the testing capacity is there, but there are still difficulties with the logistics around it." The government had earlier said it would be carrying out testing for 100,000 people a week, but it has struggled to keep up the numbers.

Sweden reports 4,000 coronavirus deaths amid reports of 'soft approach'

Sweden has revealed&nbsp;that despite adopting more relaxed measures to curb COVID-19, merely&nbsp;7.3 per cent&nbsp;of Stockholm’s inhabitants had developed Covid-19 antibodies by the end of April, according to recent study.

The study carried out by Sweden's Public Health Agency determined the potential 'herd immunity' in the population, based on 1,118 tests carried out in one week.

The research&nbsp;showed&nbsp;the country&nbsp;is well below the 70-90 per cent&nbsp;needed to create herd immunity&nbsp;in a population.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-increase-in-sweden-after-resistance-to-complete-lockdown-295355">Coronavirus cases increase in Sweden after 'resistance' to complete lockdown</a>

Herd immunity&nbsp;occurs when a large enough percentage of a population becomes immune to a virus, either through infection or vaccination, thus preventing further spread throughout the group.

In April, officials estimated&nbsp;one third of Stockholm residents&nbsp;would have developed antibodies to the coronavirus by early May, subsequently suggesting that the capital could reach herd immunity of between 40 per cent&nbsp;and 60 per cent&nbsp;by the middle of June.

Sweden’s state epidemiologist, Anders Tegnell,said ''it means either the calculations made by the agency and myself are quite wrong, which is possible, but if that’s the case it’s surprising they are so wrong. Or more people have been infected than developed.antibodies.''

The country&nbsp;has adopted a different strategy to other Nordic nations during the pandemic, choosing to avoid a lockdown and keeping most schools, restaurants, salons and bars open. It did, however, ask people to refrain from making long journeys, placing an emphasis on personal responsibility.

The strategy was criticized by Swedish researchers early on, who said that attempting to create herd immunity had low support. But the authorities denied that achieving herd immunity was their goal.

Sweden has revealed that despite adopting more relaxed measures to curb COVID-19, merely 7.3 per cent of Stockholm’s inhabitants had developed Covid-19 antibodies by the end of April, according to recent study.

Sweden has revealed that despite adopting more relaxed measures to curb COVID-19, merely 7.3 per cent of Stockholm’s inhabitants had developed Covid-19 antibodies by the end of April, according to recent study. The study carried out by Sweden's Public Health Agency determined the potential 'herd immunity' in the population, based on 1,118 tests carried out in one week. The research showed the country is well below the 70-90 per cent needed to create herd immunity in a population. Also read: Coronavirus cases increase in Sweden after 'resistance' to complete lockdown Herd immunity occurs when a large enough percentage of a population becomes immune to a virus, either through infection or vaccination, thus preventing further spread throughout the group. In April, officials estimated one third of Stockholm residents would have developed antibodies to the coronavirus by early May, subsequently suggesting that the capital could reach herd immunity of between 40 per cent and 60 per cent by the middle of June. Sweden’s state epidemiologist, Anders Tegnell,said ''it means either the calculations made by the agency and myself are quite wrong, which is possible, but if that’s the case it’s surprising they are so wrong. Or more people have been infected than developed.antibodies.'' The country has adopted a different strategy to other Nordic nations during the pandemic, choosing to avoid a lockdown and keeping most schools, restaurants, salons and bars open. It did, however, ask people to refrain from making long journeys, placing an emphasis on personal responsibility. The strategy was criticized by Swedish researchers early on, who said that attempting to create herd immunity had low support. But the authorities denied that achieving herd immunity was their goal.

Sweden's 'herd immunity' policy fails; falls short on required antibodies

Sweden on Thursday reported over 3,000 deaths due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lambasts-us-for-coercing-countries-to-plant-covid-19-accusations-against-it-297110">coronavirus </a>with over 24,000 confirmed cases after its lockdown measures were seen to be too soft compared to other European countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-ppe-consignment-fails-to-meet-uk-standards-government-ask-for-refund-297208">Also Read:&nbsp;Turkey’s PPE consignment fails to meet UK standards, government ask for refund</a>

State epidemiologist Anders Tegnell had&nbsp;earlier described&nbsp;3,000 fatalities as "horrifying" as the country approached the figure with virus cases on the rise.

"The curves show that we have, to a large extent, been successful in keeping the outbreak&nbsp;within the limits of what the healthcare system can manage," state epidemiologist Anders Tegnell

Sweden hasn't imposed lockdown measures like Italy, Spain or Germany where thousands of died to the virus with authorities preferring to allow social distancing based on "principle of responsibility" with schools for under 16s, bars, and restaurants allowed to stay open.

Authorities have however said they would close restaurants and bars in the capital which do not comply with the guidelines since Stockholm&nbsp;has&nbsp;recorded over 1,000 fatalities due to COVID-19 even as authorities sought to increase checks to ensure that rules were being followed.

Per Follin, the head of infectious disease control in Stockholm said that, "The healthcare system is under great pressure, adding, "we need to keep going with the measures we have so this ends quickly."

Last month the country had reported a big scramble for ventilators to treat COVID-19 patients with Swedish Getinge, one of the world's biggest makers of medical ventilators declaring that it would boost production by 160 per cent to 26,000 units to meet demand from health workers.

Sweden on Thursday reported over 3,000 deaths due to coronavirus with over 24,000 confirmed cases after its lockdown measures were seen to be too soft compared to other European countries.

Sweden on Thursday reported over 3,000 deaths due to coronavirus with over 24,000 confirmed cases after its lockdown measures were seen to be too soft compared to other European countries. Also Read: Turkey’s PPE consignment fails to meet UK standards, government ask for refund State epidemiologist Anders Tegnell had earlier described 3,000 fatalities as "horrifying" as the country approached the figure with virus cases on the rise. "The curves show that we have, to a large extent, been successful in keeping the outbreak within the limits of what the healthcare system can manage," state epidemiologist Anders Tegnell Sweden hasn't imposed lockdown measures like Italy, Spain or Germany where thousands of died to the virus with authorities preferring to allow social distancing based on "principle of responsibility" with schools for under 16s, bars, and restaurants allowed to stay open. Authorities have however said they would close restaurants and bars in the capital which do not comply with the guidelines since Stockholm has recorded over 1,000 fatalities due to COVID-19 even as authorities sought to increase checks to ensure that rules were being followed. Per Follin, the head of infectious disease control in Stockholm said that, "The healthcare system is under great pressure, adding, "we need to keep going with the measures we have so this ends quickly." Last month the country had reported a big scramble for ventilators to treat COVID-19 patients with Swedish Getinge, one of the world's biggest makers of medical ventilators declaring that it would boost production by 160 per cent to 26,000 units to meet demand from health workers.

Amid relaxed rules, coronavirus death toll crosses 3,000 in Sweden

While Sweden claims that its resistance to lockdown has worked, the country's coronavirus data has exposed the loopholes its strategy to curb Covid-19 pandemic.

The country has been an outlier and did not join&nbsp;its European neighbors in imposing a lockdown.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-will-coronavirus-end-in-us-uk-france-india-study-predicts-dates-month-295324">When will COVID-19 end in US, UK, France, India? Study predicts dates &amp; month</a>

While schools, restaurants, bars and&nbsp;salons were shut down in other Nordic countries such as Denmark, Norway and Finland,&nbsp;Sweden refused to walk in their steps.

It was accused of creating&nbsp;''herd immunities''&nbsp;and&nbsp;criticized for not imposing a strict lockdown&nbsp;enforced by law.

Herd immunity&nbsp;occurs when a large enough percentage of a population becomes immune to a virus, either through infection or vaccination, thus preventing further spread throughout the group.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-leaders-agree-to-mobilise-eu1-trillion-as-covid-19-rescue-plan-294408" hreflang="en">EU leaders agree to mobilise €1 trillion as Covid-19 rescue plan</a>

Swedish Minister for Health and Social Affairs,&nbsp;Lena Hallengren said,&nbsp;"One of the main concerns now in Sweden is to strengthen the protection for those living in care homes for older people."

She also justified the measures taken by saying&nbsp;it was still "far too early to draw any firm conclusions as to the effectiveness of the measures taken in Sweden."

However, as a result of the controversial approach adopted by the country,&nbsp;the death toll in Sweden has now risen significantly higher than many other countries in Europe, reaching more than 21 per 100,000 people, according to figures from&nbsp;Johns Hopkins University.

By contrast, Denmark has recorded more than seven deaths per 100,000 people, and both Norway and Finland less than four.

While Sweden is still struggling to keep a check on its virus cases, Denmark and Norway also have even begun easing restrictions in their respective lockdowns.

While Sweden claims that its resistance to lockdown has worked, the country's coronavirus data has exposed the loopholes its strategy to curb Covid-19 pandemic. The country has been an outlier and did not join its European neighbors in imposing a lockdown.

While Sweden claims that its resistance to lockdown has worked, the country's coronavirus data has exposed the loopholes its strategy to curb Covid-19 pandemic. The country has been an outlier and did not join its European neighbors in imposing a lockdown. Also read: When will COVID-19 end in US, UK, France, India? Study predicts dates & month While schools, restaurants, bars and salons were shut down in other Nordic countries such as Denmark, Norway and Finland, Sweden refused to walk in their steps. It was accused of creating ''herd immunities'' and criticized for not imposing a strict lockdown enforced by law. Herd immunity occurs when a large enough percentage of a population becomes immune to a virus, either through infection or vaccination, thus preventing further spread throughout the group. Also read: EU leaders agree to mobilise €1 trillion as Covid-19 rescue plan Swedish Minister for Health and Social Affairs, Lena Hallengren said, "One of the main concerns now in Sweden is to strengthen the protection for those living in care homes for older people." She also justified the measures taken by saying it was still "far too early to draw any firm conclusions as to the effectiveness of the measures taken in Sweden." However, as a result of the controversial approach adopted by the country, the death toll in Sweden has now risen significantly higher than many other countries in Europe, reaching more than 21 per 100,000 people, according to figures from Johns Hopkins University. By contrast, Denmark has recorded more than seven deaths per 100,000 people, and both Norway and Finland less than four. While Sweden is still struggling to keep a check on its virus cases, Denmark and Norway also have even begun easing restrictions in their respective lockdowns.

Coronavirus cases increase in Sweden after 'resistance' to complete lockdown

As the pandemic takes a toll on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-mike-pompeo-hits-out-at-china-over-not-allowing-lab-inspections-294320">China's</a> ties with the world, in the midst of it, Sweden has shutdown Chinese schools in the country. The Beijing-backed schools were meant to promote the Chinese language and culture.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-to-conduct-clinical-trials-on-pakistani-patients-for-covid-19-vaccine-294172">Also Read:&nbsp;China to conduct clinical trials on Pakistani patients for COVID-19 vaccine</a>

However, now due to security concerns, questions are being raised about the Confucius institutes, one of which was closed in Maryland in the US earlier this year.

Sweden's relationship with China has been souring since 2015 but now it seems to have taken a definitive turn for the worse.

The Nordic nation has shutdown the last remaining school for Chinese language and culture. The Chinese state-sponsored teaching programme has been brought to a halt. The Confucius institutes are funded by Beijing. The textbooks used in them are also scripted by Beijing.

Sweden has clamped down on them citing security concerns. It isn't the first to do it. In January, the University of Maryland in the US too cancelled the Confucius institute affiliated with it due to allegations of Beijing trying to politically influence academics.

China controls what is taught in Confucius classrooms and censorship is strong. Topics like Taiwan's independence and persecution of Tibetans are completely left out. 
The Confucius institutes are also accused of biased hiring practices as they allegedly favour only those loyal to the Chinese regime.

Now the Swedish government has chosen to do away with these schools altogether. It makes Sweden the first European country to carry out the closure. Experts say it's a clear sign that Sweden's attitude towards China has turned negative. China and Sweden have been at loggerheads over the arrest of a Swedish bookseller. Hong Kong-based Gu Minhai was detained by China in 2018 for selling books critical of President Xi Jinping.

Two months ago he was sentenced to ten years in prison. This, along with China's role in the coronavirus outbreak, is set to have damaged ties. It doesn't help that China is facing a global trust deficit due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

As the pandemic takes a toll on China's ties with the world, in the midst of it, Sweden has shutdown Chinese schools in the country. The Beijing-backed schools were meant to promote the Chinese language and culture.

As the pandemic takes a toll on China's ties with the world, in the midst of it, Sweden has shutdown Chinese schools in the country. The Beijing-backed schools were meant to promote the Chinese language and culture. Also Read: China to conduct clinical trials on Pakistani patients for COVID-19 vaccine However, now due to security concerns, questions are being raised about the Confucius institutes, one of which was closed in Maryland in the US earlier this year. Sweden's relationship with China has been souring since 2015 but now it seems to have taken a definitive turn for the worse. The Nordic nation has shutdown the last remaining school for Chinese language and culture. The Chinese state-sponsored teaching programme has been brought to a halt. The Confucius institutes are funded by Beijing. The textbooks used in them are also scripted by Beijing. Sweden has clamped down on them citing security concerns. It isn't the first to do it. In January, the University of Maryland in the US too cancelled the Confucius institute affiliated with it due to allegations of Beijing trying to politically influence academics. China controls what is taught in Confucius classrooms and censorship is strong. Topics like Taiwan's independence and persecution of Tibetans are completely left out. The Confucius institutes are also accused of biased hiring practices as they allegedly favour only those loyal to the Chinese regime. Now the Swedish government has chosen to do away with these schools altogether. It makes Sweden the first European country to carry out the closure. Experts say it's a clear sign that Sweden's attitude towards China has turned negative. China and Sweden have been at loggerheads over the arrest of a Swedish bookseller. Hong Kong-based Gu Minhai was detained by China in 2018 for selling books critical of President Xi Jinping. Two months ago he was sentenced to ten years in prison. This, along with China's role in the coronavirus outbreak, is set to have damaged ties. It doesn't help that China is facing a global trust deficit due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Now, Sweden shuts China's Confucius institutes

Swedish authorities said on Tuesday that the country's capital Stockholm may have passed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-beijings-top-district-is-a-high-risk-coronavirus-zone-293859">coronavirus</a> infection "peak".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-locks-migrant-hotel-in-peloponnese-after-mass-coronavirus-cases-293834">Also Read: Greece locks 'migrant hotel' in Peloponnese after mass coronavirus cases</a>

"According to this model the peak was reached then and after that we can expect fewer cases per day, but that doesn't mean the infection stops," Anders Wallensten, deputy state epidemiologist said on Tuesday.

Sweden has over 15,000 confirmed coronavirus cases with 6,200 infection cases in capital Stockholm. According to reports, Stockholm accounts for over 40 per cent of cases in the country.

The country's health agency in a report said 86,000 of Stockholm's one million residents had the virus on April 15. According to the modelling data, the officials&nbsp;assumed only about one in 1,000 cases were confirmed via testing with the model set to become more accurate as more data is fed into it after more tests.

A report had claimed last week that showed that some poorer neighborhoods in the capital had up to three times as many COVID-19 cases per capita. However, the country hasn't imposed harsh lockdown measures like elsewhere in Europe, instead, it has relied on people taking responsibility and practicing social distancing.

Sweden's parliament last week had passed a new law granting the government temporary powers to adopt measures aimed at curbing the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic. The measures included the Social Democrat-led government to take steps without prior approval of parliament which included shutting businesses and limiting gatherings.

The new powers which have come into force on April 18 will last until end June.

The government has already banned gatherings of more than 50 people and barred visits to nursing homes.

Swedish authorities said on Tuesday that the country's capital Stockholm may have passed the coronavirus infection "peak". Also Read: Greece locks 'migrant hotel' in Peloponnese after mass coronavirus cases "According to this model the peak was reached then and after that we can expect fewer cases per day, but that doesn't mean the infection stops," Anders Wallensten, deputy state epidemiologist said on Tuesday.

Swedish authorities said on Tuesday that the country's capital Stockholm may have passed the coronavirus infection "peak". Also Read: Greece locks 'migrant hotel' in Peloponnese after mass coronavirus cases "According to this model the peak was reached then and after that we can expect fewer cases per day, but that doesn't mean the infection stops," Anders Wallensten, deputy state epidemiologist said on Tuesday. Sweden has over 15,000 confirmed coronavirus cases with 6,200 infection cases in capital Stockholm. According to reports, Stockholm accounts for over 40 per cent of cases in the country. The country's health agency in a report said 86,000 of Stockholm's one million residents had the virus on April 15. According to the modelling data, the officials assumed only about one in 1,000 cases were confirmed via testing with the model set to become more accurate as more data is fed into it after more tests. A report had claimed last week that showed that some poorer neighborhoods in the capital had up to three times as many COVID-19 cases per capita. However, the country hasn't imposed harsh lockdown measures like elsewhere in Europe, instead, it has relied on people taking responsibility and practicing social distancing. Sweden's parliament last week had passed a new law granting the government temporary powers to adopt measures aimed at curbing the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic. The measures included the Social Democrat-led government to take steps without prior approval of parliament which included shutting businesses and limiting gatherings. The new powers which have come into force on April 18 will last until end June. The government has already banned gatherings of more than 50 people and barred visits to nursing homes.

After data analysis, Swedish authorities feel Stockholm may have passed 'coronavirus peak'

Sweden on Tuesday recorded 1,000 deaths due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-china-approves-trials-for-two-more-coronavirus-vaccines-292466">coronavirus</a>, the government declared.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-spain-records-567-new-deaths-as-death-toll-crosses-18000-292450">Also Read:&nbsp;COVID-19: Spain records 567 new deaths as death toll crosses 18,000</a>

The country which was earlier criticised for taking a "soft" approach to fight COVID-19 has since reported a rising number of cases.

Health agency said it had recorded a total of 11,445 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 1,033 deaths.

Last week the country had reported 100 deaths in one-day alarming officials. Sweden's public health agency had said earlier that it had recorded 7,693 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the country.

114 people had died due to the virus last week. Sweden had earlier reportedly kept its schools, restaurants and bars open. The country also avoided a lockdown while Europe had already put stringent lockdown measures in place.

Earlier, the country had rejected claims by US President Trump that its approach to containing the COVID-19 was too soft and that it was "suffering" more than others.

"There aren't too many of them... They talk about Sweden, but Sweden is suffering very gravely," Trump had said at a news conference.&nbsp;

However, Sweden's foreign minister said: "We are doing about the same things that many other countries are doing, but in a different way, we trust that people take responsibility."

State epidemiologist Anders Tegnell at Sweden's Public Health Agency added: "No, we don't share his opinion."&nbsp;

"Of course we're suffering. Everybody in the world is suffering right now, in different ways," he said, adding," but Swedish healthcare, which I guess he alludes to... is taking care of this in a very good manner. It's a lot of work, it's a lot of stress on the personnel and it's really a fight for them every day, but it's working."

Sweden on Tuesday recorded 1,000 deaths due to coronavirus, the government declared. Also Read: COVID-19: Spain records 567 new deaths as death toll crosses 18,000 The country which was earlier criticised for taking a "soft" approach to fight COVID-19 has since reported a rising number of cases.

Sweden on Tuesday recorded 1,000 deaths due to coronavirus, the government declared. Also Read: COVID-19: Spain records 567 new deaths as death toll crosses 18,000 The country which was earlier criticised for taking a "soft" approach to fight COVID-19 has since reported a rising number of cases. Health agency said it had recorded a total of 11,445 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 1,033 deaths. Last week the country had reported 100 deaths in one-day alarming officials. Sweden's public health agency had said earlier that it had recorded 7,693 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the country. 114 people had died due to the virus last week. Sweden had earlier reportedly kept its schools, restaurants and bars open. The country also avoided a lockdown while Europe had already put stringent lockdown measures in place. Earlier, the country had rejected claims by US President Trump that its approach to containing the COVID-19 was too soft and that it was "suffering" more than others. "There aren't too many of them... They talk about Sweden, but Sweden is suffering very gravely," Trump had said at a news conference. However, Sweden's foreign minister said: "We are doing about the same things that many other countries are doing, but in a different way, we trust that people take responsibility." State epidemiologist Anders Tegnell at Sweden's Public Health Agency added: "No, we don't share his opinion." "Of course we're suffering. Everybody in the world is suffering right now, in different ways," he said, adding," but Swedish healthcare, which I guess he alludes to... is taking care of this in a very good manner. It's a lot of work, it's a lot of stress on the personnel and it's really a fight for them every day, but it's working."

Sweden records over 1,000 deaths due to coronavirus

After reports emerged of Sweden being "open for business" as Europe battle the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-virus-can-last-on-face-masks-for-a-week-banknotes-for-days-study-291161">coronavirus</a> epidemic, Swedish health officials reported 100 deaths in one day on Tuesday.

Sweden reported another 114 deaths from the new coronavirus, bringing the total to 591 in the country after reportedly adopting a "soft" approach to containing the spread of COVID-19.

Sweden's public health agency said it had recorded 7,693 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-coronavirus-pandemic-sweden-is-still-open-for-business-288525">Also Read: Amid coronavirus pandemic, Sweden is still open for business</a>

Sweden had earlier reportedly kept its schools, restaurants and bars open. The country&nbsp;also avoided a lockdown while citizens of other European countries have been behind closed for over a month.

The government was also apparently encouraging people to go outside for a "nip of air"&nbsp;even as Europe has become the epicentre of COVID-19 with Britain, Italy and Spain reeling under the virus outbreak.

Sweden's government had said on Monday that it will seek temporary extra powers to combat the coronavirus outbreak even as the move drew criticism from the opposition.

"Sweden and the world is in a serious situation due to the coronavirus," Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a statement.

"We see a need to be able to act quickly if the situation calls for it, it is ultimately about protecting human lives," Hallengren added.

Europe has seen the highest causalities due to COVID-19. Italy which has been hit hardest due to the virus has already witnessed 16,523 fatalities with 132,547 infections. Spain has recorded 13,798 fatalities and 140,510 infections.

In France, 8,911 deaths have been reported with 98,010 infections, followed by Britain with 5,373 deaths and 51,608 cases.

Sweden's neighbour Finland had earlier announced tougher controls to reduce arrivals from its neighbours including Sweden. The two countries which share the land border witnesses several thousand workers and families moving about every day even as traffic across the border has fallen after the government banned all but essential traffic on March 14.

Finland had also announced that passenger ferries linking Finland with Germany, Estonia and Sweden would also stop selling tickets.

After reports emerged of Sweden being "open for business" as Europe battle the coronavirus epidemic, Swedish health officials reported 100 deaths in one day on Tuesday.

After reports emerged of Sweden being "open for business" as Europe battle the coronavirus epidemic, Swedish health officials reported 100 deaths in one day on Tuesday. Sweden reported another 114 deaths from the new coronavirus, bringing the total to 591 in the country after reportedly adopting a "soft" approach to containing the spread of COVID-19. Sweden's public health agency said it had recorded 7,693 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the country. Also Read: Amid coronavirus pandemic, Sweden is still open for business Sweden had earlier reportedly kept its schools, restaurants and bars open. The country also avoided a lockdown while citizens of other European countries have been behind closed for over a month. The government was also apparently encouraging people to go outside for a "nip of air" even as Europe has become the epicentre of COVID-19 with Britain, Italy and Spain reeling under the virus outbreak. Sweden's government had said on Monday that it will seek temporary extra powers to combat the coronavirus outbreak even as the move drew criticism from the opposition. "Sweden and the world is in a serious situation due to the coronavirus," Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a statement. "We see a need to be able to act quickly if the situation calls for it, it is ultimately about protecting human lives," Hallengren added. Europe has seen the highest causalities due to COVID-19. Italy which has been hit hardest due to the virus has already witnessed 16,523 fatalities with 132,547 infections. Spain has recorded 13,798 fatalities and 140,510 infections. In France, 8,911 deaths have been reported with 98,010 infections, followed by Britain with 5,373 deaths and 51,608 cases. Sweden's neighbour Finland had earlier announced tougher controls to reduce arrivals from its neighbours including Sweden. The two countries which share the land border witnesses several thousand workers and families moving about every day even as traffic across the border has fallen after the government banned all but essential traffic on March 14. Finland had also announced that passenger ferries linking Finland with Germany, Estonia and Sweden would also stop selling tickets.

Sweden reports over 100 deaths in one day amid 'soft' approach to combat coronavirus

In these extraordinary times when over 20 per cent of the population is under lockdown, Sweden goes its own way, keeping primary schools, restaurants and bars open.

The government is even encouraging people to go outside for a nip of air.

Sweden is far from unaffected by the coronavirus epidemic. As of now, a total of 2,526 people have been infected while over 40 people have died due to the novel coronavirus.

However, the Scandinavian country believes that its distinctive high-trust in public health agency will protect it from needing to shut down for the pandemic.

"Yesterday, Parliament adopted, after a record fast process, a law that gives the government the mandate and preparedness, if necessary, to close schools and pre-schools. I'd like to emphasise that currently, it's not on the table to close pre-schools and primary schools," Education minister Anna Ekstrom said on Tuesday. 
&nbsp; 
Stockholm's coronavirus efforts stand out as markedly measured and the government's commitment to go its own way in combating it.

Two weeks after the country’s public health agency raised the risk level of the spread of the virus to "very high," there are no compulsory quarantines or shutdowns of restaurants, bars and public spaces.

While there is a ban on public gatherings, the 500-person limit is more generous compared to Britain and Germany where the limit is set to two people.

This stands in stark contrast to the urgent tone elsewhere and has sparked a heated debate whether Sweden is really doing the right thing.

Life is at a standstill in most European Union countries which have by now arrived at the same lockdown strategy in a battle against the coronavirus while Sweden continues as normal.

However, with the number of infections on the rise, whether Sweden will stay the course remains to be seen.

In these extraordinary times when over 20 per cent of the population is under lockdown, Sweden goes its own way, keeping primary schools, restaurants and bars open.

In these extraordinary times when over 20 per cent of the population is under lockdown, Sweden goes its own way, keeping primary schools, restaurants and bars open. The government is even encouraging people to go outside for a nip of air. Sweden is far from unaffected by the coronavirus epidemic. As of now, a total of 2,526 people have been infected while over 40 people have died due to the novel coronavirus. However, the Scandinavian country believes that its distinctive high-trust in public health agency will protect it from needing to shut down for the pandemic. "Yesterday, Parliament adopted, after a record fast process, a law that gives the government the mandate and preparedness, if necessary, to close schools and pre-schools. I'd like to emphasise that currently, it's not on the table to close pre-schools and primary schools," Education minister Anna Ekstrom said on Tuesday. Stockholm's coronavirus efforts stand out as markedly measured and the government's commitment to go its own way in combating it. Two weeks after the country’s public health agency raised the risk level of the spread of the virus to "very high," there are no compulsory quarantines or shutdowns of restaurants, bars and public spaces. While there is a ban on public gatherings, the 500-person limit is more generous compared to Britain and Germany where the limit is set to two people. This stands in stark contrast to the urgent tone elsewhere and has sparked a heated debate whether Sweden is really doing the right thing. Life is at a standstill in most European Union countries which have by now arrived at the same lockdown strategy in a battle against the coronavirus while Sweden continues as normal. However, with the number of infections on the rise, whether Sweden will stay the course remains to be seen.

Amid coronavirus pandemic, Sweden is still open for business