Sweden PM defends government strategy on virus

Sweden's Prime Minister Stefan Lofven has defended the country's strategy in fighting COVID-19, reiterating the Scandinavian country's long-term approach to limiting the spread of the disease that has now killed more than 3,500 people in the country.

Addressing foreign correspondents in the Swedish capital, Stockholm on Friday, the Prime Minister wanted to dispel the misconception that the country was not taking the pandemic seriously.

"Life is not carrying on as normal in Sweden," he said.

"Many people are staying at home, which has had a positive effect on limiting the spread of the virus. Of course, we are painfully aware that too many people have lost their lives due to COVID-19."

He said like several other countries, Swden did not manage to protect the most vulnerable people, the most elderly, despite best intentions.

With about 90-percent of COVID19 deaths above the age of 70, and many in nursing homes, the authorities have come under criticism for failing to protect the most vulnerable.

Swedish media in recent weeks has reported cases where retirement homes have seen a large death toll with staff continuing to work despite a lack of protective gear or despite exhibiting symptoms and potentially infecting residents.

Some retirement homes also have been seen a shortage of staff because employees either have refused to work and have been encouraged to stay home even with mild symptoms.

Lofven said that whilst the mortality rate in elderly homes was regrettable and disappointing, it did not disqualify the overall strategy.

Sweden took a relatively soft approach to fighting the coronavirus, one that attracted international attention.

Large gatherings were banned but restaurants and schools for younger children have stayed open. The government has urged social distancing, and Swedes have largely complied.