Are Swedes naive or the only adults in the room? A friend who grew up in Sweden posted a link.
Sweden has taken a different approach to managing the coronavirus has attracted unwonted international media attention. This has led to questions – is everything really business as usual?
Restaurants and cafes are open. Parks are full of children and parents. And there have never been so many people out for walks. But we keep our distance. The “Swedish model” for managing the coronavirus:
Instead of draconian laws, the authorities expect citizens to behave in a considerate way. So, for example, if you have any symptoms, even a mild cough or sore throat, you are expected to stay at home. You should try to avoid public-transport during the rush-hour. If you can work from home, do so.
Closing of borders is seen as a political decision that makes no difference epidemiologically. Although universities and sixth-form colleges have closed their physical doors, primary and junior schools have been kept open. Why? Because, completing school is the most important factor in determining their children’s future health.
So, in the middle of the worst pandemic in almost 100 years, the head of the much-maligned agency is taking into consideration the academic achievements, employment possibilities and lifetime outcomes of today’s school children.
Are people dropping dead like flies in Sweden? Not at any higher rate than they are anywhere else. So as our politicians acted on emotion and stampeding public’s opinion in a contentious election year, people in Sweden demonstrated level-headedness and let their health ministry act independently of WHO recommendations.