More cases of a highly infectious coronavirus variant that has spread from Britain have been discovered in Finland.
Yle has learned that 14 cases had been diagnosed by Monday afternoon, in addition to three previously reported.
Previously two cases of the new British mutation had been confirmed in Finland, as well as one of a new faster-spreading variant first detected in South Africa.
Most of the cases are related to foreign travel during the 7-20 December period, primarily in the UK. Five of those infected are relatives of others who had been diagnosed with the new strain and were in quarantine.
Emergency Powers Act on the agenda
If the new form of the virus spreads, Finland may have to impose tougher restrictions. Prime Minister Sanna Marin (SDP) said on Sunday that her government has already discussed a possible revision of Finland’s coronavirus strategy if the new strain proliferates.
The government could invoke the Communicable Diseases Act, which is now being revised by Parliament. This would allow it to order the closure of private facilities, such as gyms.
Chancellor of Justice Tuomas Pöysti told Yle that the cabinet could also again use the Emergency Powers Act if other means are deemed insufficient to rein in the spread of the pandemic.
Helsinki starts vaccinations at care homes
Meanwhile the city of Helsinki is beginning vaccinations at long-term care facilities this week. Along with healthcare staff, the jab is being given to some 1,000 residents of four old-age care homes.
Last week just under 1,000 city-employed healthcare professionals got vaccinations. This week city officials aim to inoculate about 2,000 people.
“According to current estimates, vaccination of professionals working with coronavirus patients, care workers and residents as well as other critical social and healthcare staff will take at least the rest of January. We will then begin to vaccinate other people who are susceptible to this more serious variant due to age or illness,” Helsinki health services director Leena Turpeinen told Yle.
So far there is no indication the vaccination programme will affect visiting guidelines at city care facilities.
13.30: Updated infection and vaccination figures.