Hopeful We’re Getting This Under Control

Chief Epidemiologist Þórólfur Guðnason is relatively optimistic that Icelanders are getting the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic under control, even though several new cases have been confirmed in recent days, mbl.is reports.

“To me, it looks pretty good,” he states, “All of what we’re dealing with is the same virus . What we’re seeing is that most of the people being diagnosed are already in quarantine, which suggests we’re getting this under control, so I’m relatively optimistic.”

When asked whether he’ll continue being at the forefront regarding recommendations for measures to take in the fight against the pandemic, he responds:

“Yes, my role is to point out what I believe works best from the standpoint of disease prevention and to make suggestions, but at this point in time, what needs to be evaluated is the interest of the whole country. That is up to the government, but I will continue to present my point of view, with regard to disease prevention.”

Government authorities will start a consultation forum on the subject of the pandemic today, headed by the Ministries of Health and Justice. Þórólfur and Chief Superintendent Víðir Reynisson will be present at the forum, although Þórólfur is not planning to be vocal there. “We’ll be there and listen to what others have to say,” he states.

Two new domestic cases of COVID-19 were confirmed yesterday and one at the border. There are currently 117 active cases of the disease in the country and 439 people in quarantine. One person is hospitalized with the disease, but not in intensive care. Most of the people with an active case of the disease right now are aged 18-29, or 52 individuals.