In addition to the standard COVID-19 two-dose vaccine protocol, Sweden is recommending a third booster dose for anyone who is pregnant, over the age of 65 or at higher risk of severe illness. .Although Sweden has taken a less-strict approach when dealing with the pandemic — allowing schools, restaurants and bars to remain open with little to no masking mandates — it looks to be the first country recommending the fifth COVID-19 shot. .“The vaccine is our strongest tool for preventing serious illness and death,” Swedish Social Affairs Minister Lena Hallengren said, as reported by AP News. .The fifth shot — or third booster — will be offered to those eligible by September 1 in preparation for "an increased spread during the upcoming autumn and winter season," said Sweden's public health agency. .“In general, the risk of serious illness is assessed as low for adults under the age of 65 who have been vaccinated with three doses, but the risk increases with age and varies within the group,” said Swedish Public Health Agency Chief Karin Tegmark Wisell..Sweden was one of few European nations to stay open during the pandemic and relied on its citizens to make responsible decisions rather than implement lockdowns and other mandates. .According to Reuters COVID-19 tracker, Sweden, with a population of 10.35 million, tracked 2.5 million cases during the course of the pandemic and recorded 18,902 deaths.
