COVID-19 variant raises concerns as Finland prepares for autumn-winter season

The coronavirus continues to circulate among the population, causing sporadic spikes in infections. According to Eeva Ruotsalainen, the Deputy Chief Physician of HUS and an expert in infectious diseases, there were three epidemic waves last year, with the most severe occurring from October to December.

Unlike seasonal flu and RSV, which typically peak from late autumn to spring, the coronavirus has not yet demonstrated clear seasonal patterns. Ruotsalainen notes that this year’s COVID-19 wave began in late summer, leading to mild infections through September affecting both healthy individuals and those in risk groups.

A new variant could trigger another wave. Ruotsalainen emphasizes that older adults are particularly vulnerable to hospitalization due to complications from COVID-19, which significantly increases mortality rates among this group. The new XEC variant, which has spread across Europe since summer, is expected to arrive in Finland and is likely more transmissible than previous strains.

Vaccination remains a key protection for those over 65 and other high-risk groups against severe illness. Last year, vaccination efforts lagged, resulting in over twice the number of COVID-19 deaths within two months compared to the first year of the pandemic. This year’s vaccination schedule has been expedited, yet vaccination rates remain low, with only 54% of those over 80 and 23% of those aged 65-79 vaccinated nationwide. Ruotsalainen advocates for achieving over 80% vaccination coverage in people over 65 to reduce hospitalizations and deaths.

She also stresses the importance of getting both COVID-19 and flu vaccinations ahead of the autumn-winter epidemic season, highlighting that COVID-19 can cause more severe illness than common flu viruses. Masks are recommended for those in high-risk groups, especially during peak times. Good hand hygiene is advised, although it is insufficient against respiratory viruses.