Intensive care units on the verge of collapse in Stockholm

Ninety-nine percent of intensive care beds in Stockholm are occupied by Covid and non-Covid patients.

This was announced by the regional health director, Bjorn Eriksson, in a press conference.

This is the first time since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. During the first wave, intensive care units in the Swedish capital had been increased to a total of 160 beds, but these are now almost full. Eriksson made an appeal not to "assemble in stores for Christmas shopping, in clubs for a drink after work even if that's what we want to do. The consequences are horrible."

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Bjorn Eriksson called on Swedish citizens to "lend a hand" to doctors and nurses by "declining invitations to socialize outside the home," but also by "informing the person who asked you to go out that it is a bad idea at this time."

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The Stockholm Region health officer then asked those who have been seriously ill with covid-19 to tell others about their experience "to show how awful this disease is." "We need people to understand that having a beer after work with colleagues can have disastrous consequences. I know many are patiently following the guidelines and recommendations, but we need to make sure all people do."

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Sweden is one of the few countries that has never imposed a general lockdown on its citizens, preferring to rely on their sense of responsibility. Currently, some restrictions have been introduced across the country including a maximum limit of eight diners in bars and restaurants and a ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages after 10pm, while distance learning has been imposed for high school students.

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