On Monday, 12,000 new conscripts will begin their military service in Finland, operating under strict health measures aimed at preventing the spread of infections, including an aggressive adenovirus recently observed in garrisons.
These precautions will include the use of face masks, strict isolation between training units and enhanced hygiene protocols.
To minimise the risk of outbreaks, conscripts will be divided into separate units that will not interact with each other for the first three weeks of service. Training groups will focus on physical distancing and all interactions with staff will follow stringent safety protocols.
Major Saku Silmu, head of training at the Pori Brigade, stressed the importance of these measures.
"An adenovirus infection can emerge up to two weeks after exposure," he said.
"The goal is to limit infections brought by new conscripts to ensure they do not spread uncontrollably within the garrison."
The Pori Brigade will receive approximately 2,000 of the incoming conscripts. During the three-week period, contact with individuals outside their immediate training unit will be heavily restricted and conscripts will be instructed to practise proper hygiene, including regular handwashing and sanitising.
The precautions come after a severe adenovirus outbreak in the Kainuu Brigade last autumn, which overwhelmed the garrison's healthcare resources.
The Defence Forces aim to prevent a repeat of such incidents by implementing these early measures. Decisions on whether the restrictions will extend beyond the initial three weeks will be made later.
Impact on family visits
As part of the precautions, the traditional "family day" for new conscripts has been cancelled for January. While families will not be allowed to visit military bases, conscripts will have the opportunity to communicate with their loved ones during their first weekend of service.
The Finnish Defence Forces cited the decision as a necessary step, particularly in light of recent outbreaks of adenovirus. In some cases, infected individuals required hospitalisation, underscoring the need for preventive measures.
Support from the Conscripts' Union
The Conscript Union of Finland has expressed its support for the precautions, recognising the challenges of maintaining health in garrison environments where illnesses can spread rapidly.
Mats Uotila, the Union's new chairperson, acknowledged the importance of health and safety but emphasised the need to balance these measures with fostering camaraderie.
"Social interaction with fellow conscripts and staff is crucial for building team spirit," Uotila said.
"We hope the three-week isolation period will be sufficient and trust the Defence Forces' judgement. Developing strong bonds within the unit is essential for a smooth start to service."
Uotila also expressed regret over the cancellation of family day, recalling its significance from his own conscription experience.
"It's a meaningful and highly anticipated event for both conscripts and their families. It's important for families to see the daily life of their loved ones in the garrison," he said.