In Västerbotten, until March 12, 8 cases have been reported covid -19. All cases apply to persons residing in Italy.

- We have no signs of spreading infection in Västerbotten today, but there is a risk that we will get it. We re-prioritize healthcare operations as it is needed based on our plans for how to manage a pandemic, says Ulrica Bergström, associate director of health and medical services in the press release.

Sampling takes place at the emergency clinics in Skellefteå and Lycksele as well as at the infection clinic at Norrland University Hospital in Umeå.

Mobile sampling

Mobile sampling can also be done using a so-called assessment car. This applies to people in the Umeå area who are unable to get to the infection site by their own car, as they are not required to go to the hospital with public communication.

- It is extremely important that everyone avoids unnecessary visits to people being cared for in hospitals and homes. We all need to be helped to reduce the spread of infection to protect our most vulnerable, says Gunilla Persson, tf infection prevention physician.