Finland's Pirkanmaa region reported 70 new coronavirus infections on Thursday, its highest daily number to date.
The number includes the latest cases linked to a major chain of infections linked to junior hockey players.
Janne Laine, an infectious diseases specialist at Tampere University Hospital (TAYS), said that more than 20 infections are associated with this cluster. The Pirkanmaa region, which includes the city of Tampere, is located in south-central Finland.
More than 140 people were known to be exposed as of Wednesday, but the number may well rise.
According to TAYS, the majority of those infected are between 10 and 11 years old. There are infections in several teams. TAYS said adults working with the teams also have been infected. The cases began to emerge last week.
Asymptomatic juniors may be tested
Two teams, Ilves and Tappara, said on Wednesday that some of their junior players had infections. Other teams are involved in the disease cluster but have not yet been named.
The juniors have played and practiced with other teams, and some have attended training camps with players from more than one team.
"The clubs have advised to take a two-week practice break," Laine said.
TAYS is also considering testing asymptomatic exposed juniors to bring the outbreak under control. According to Laine, the new chain of infection is worrying.
"Although the rules on recreational activities for children under the age of 12 have been loosened, it is important that efforts are made to combat infections," he said.
So far at least, no similar outbreaks have been seen in other sports in Pirkanmaa.