The delta variant was first identified in India and has spread widely, including in the UK. Almost all EU countries have had an occurrence of this variant, and this week an increasing number of cases have been discovered in Värmland and Blekinge. This has led to a tightening of infection control measures in these regions. The Public Health Agency is also reviewing what needs to be done on a national level. At the same time, the authority has decided to increase national monitoring of the delta variant, via typing PCR.

The delta variant of the virus is believed to be more transmissible than other variants. Preliminary analyses show that vaccination protection after one dose is somewhat lower against the delta variant. However, two doses of vaccine provide good protection, writes the Public Health Agency of Sweden.

With the tightening of regional infection control measures and increased monitoring, the assessment is that the return to a more normal society should be able to go ahead according to long-term planning. Nevertheless, the Public Health Agency is reminding people of the importance of following advice and recommendations.