Denmark Sees Sharp Rise in COVID-19 Cases Immediately After Easing Restrictions... Strengthens Measures Again After Two Months

by Kwon Jaehee

Published 09 Nov.2021 11:04(KST)

▲Mette Frederiksen, Prime Minister of Denmark [Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] Denmark, which had lifted most of its COVID-19 containment policies early due to high vaccination rates, is now experiencing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. Alarmed by the sharp increase in confirmed cases, the country has decided to tighten its quarantine measures again after about two months.

According to AFP on the 8th (local time), Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated, "The Infectious Disease Committee has classified COVID-19 as a 'socially threatening disease' and recommended reinstating the 'Corona Pass,' and the government has decided to follow this recommendation."

Prime Minister Frederiksen added, "If the Corona Pass is reintroduced, unvaccinated individuals will face inconveniences in their daily lives."

The Corona Pass is a system that certifies vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result.

Since August last year, Denmark had mandated mask-wearing on public transportation, in stores, and indoor facilities, and required proof of vaccination through the Corona Pass. However, as the daily confirmed cases remained around 500, the government effectively lifted all Corona Pass restrictions on September 10.

In Denmark, with a population of 5.8 million, 85.9% of those aged 12 and older have completed vaccination.

However, on the 8th, the number of new confirmed cases exceeded 2,000 for the fifth consecutive day, and the number of severe COVID-19 patients in intensive care units reached 26.

Prime Minister Frederiksen explained the reason for reintroducing the quarantine policy, saying, "Health authorities anticipated an increase in COVID-19 infections, but the actual rate of increase far exceeded expectations."

AFP reported that local hospitals have also issued warnings that not only COVID-19 but also other infectious diseases such as influenza are causing a surge in patients, potentially disrupting patient care.