Estonia plans to reduce curbs for an open society in the fall season

COVID-19 preparedness strategy for the 2019 COVID season was unveiled by Estonia's Minister of Health and Labor Tanel Kiik on Thursday, which aims to keep society as open and natural as possible.

At a press conference at the behest of the government on Thursday, Kiik stressed the importance of public participation. "The notion exists that we can maintain the community as free as practicable in the next wave if we all participate consciously."

In the event that new limits are necessary, the plan states that the legal system of the state has to be ready to apply them efficiently and quickly.

It is imperative that Estonia be equipped for new COVID versions and new waves, according to Kiik However, he feels that Estonian society and the healthcare industry are now better equipped to cope with the challenges they face.

"Almost 90% of the adult population has developed antibodies," he said of the vaccination rate. "Hospitals also have a number of anti-COVID-19 medications, as well as preparedness measures and safety gear (PPE). We provide a variety of additional digital solutions, including ones that help family doctors and patients save time and effort. Also on the way: first-line treatments."

According to the minister of health, a fourth shot of COVID vaccination would most likely be administered before the fall season commences. It is likely to start with the elderly as well as other high-risk populations.

There will be no mandatory immunisation for COVID-19 virus as laid out in the strategy. However, the gradual reinstatement of COVID passes would not be excluded in cases of severe infection risk.

There are plans in place for public academic establishments to receive COVID-19 antigen quick tests, and testing will be coordinated by the ministry. The government plans to encourage the continuance of events in non-formal, recreation, education and youth work in order to support youth engagement in these activities and their mental health as a result.

As per the readiness plan,  the country's Health Board must greatly strengthen its capacity for surveillance of infectious diseases and prevention in terms of improving Estonia's long-term readiness for pandemics.

For the Estonian administration, a light scenario, a severe scenario, and a new pandemic are all plausible outcomes of the COVID readiness strategy.

Birgit Lao, director of the Estonian Health Board, spoke on ERR's "Otse uudistemajast" on Wednesday that the moderate scenario is presently the most probable to emerge in Estonia.