Hi! My name is Sophia and I’m an 18-year-old girl from Stockholm, Sweden.
Sweden’s situation is a little different from most countries. Its strategy is to try to create a “herd immunity” which means that most people contract the virus on during a longer time than to avoid it all together. Because of this, we don’t have as many or as strict restrictions as other countries. Schools from kindergarten up to 9th grade are still open, though 10th grade and higher are doing school at home. Most businesses are open, though their economy is unfortunately declining. We can still move around freely, though we are recommended to stay at home.
At the moment, we have a restriction to not be in bigger gatherings than 50 people at once, but it’s totally fine to meet up with a smaller group. Because of the recommendation of staying at home, the streets are emptier than usual, but people are still out and about. The most critical area in Sweden is Stockholm (where I am), so we have been asked to not leave the city and spread the disease more and so overwork healthcare workers in smaller regions. Most events in Sweden have been postponed or canceled all through the summer, and islands are trying to stop boats of tourists and such from the mainland.
Most movie theatres, theme parks, and museums are closed, though smaller events outside are still taking part. Also, there is a restriction to visit retirement homes as well.
I think the main issue in Stockholm is that some people dismiss the recommendation of staying at home and are carrying on as usual with going to restaurants and bars in large groups anyways. Also, the seniors graduating this year are really upset. All the big ceremonies are getting canceled, and a lot of them are trying to have them anyways, ignoring the restriction. Some are trying to post-pone the ceremonies and parties, but some students are doing the more dangerous thing and are trying to revolt against the restrictions and have all the parties and such anyways.
I agree that it is a risky strategy, but it also nice, because the world doesn’t stop spinning. We can still meet friends (responsibly) and not feel scared every time we go out. Most swedes are very cautious, and therefore I think this strategy is working. The citizens don’t have to fear the fresh air or not meet any friends, and life is still somehow moving instead of standing still in quarantine. I do think the quarantine strategy also will work, just in a slower pace.
I’m not too worried because we are every day updated by the State epidemiologists about their work of restricting the spread of the virus. Also, I’m mostly at home, and if I’m with friends I’m always outside. I have asthma, so I’m trying to stay extra careful not to contract it, but I’m not too worried.
I think most people are aware of this issue, but we’re trying not to let fear rules our actions, but that we instead are being cautious, wash our hands and try to keep a distance to people.
I mostly find different news channels on YouTube as well as read articles about the subject in the different countries. I also hear it on the Swedish news channels. Although, it's mostly informations about Spain, France, The UK, and the US.
Keep calm and try to get through this. Please try to stay inside and find enjoyment with the people you are with. Maybe try to learn a new skill (I’m trying to learn how to play the violin) or just spend some extra time with family members. This world will make it through this, it might take weeks, months, or years, but we will get through this. Just remember to love, not hate, and be patient. Stay healthy!
Write a comment