smittskydd

Smittskydd, literally infection protection, is a field within public health that focuses on preventing and controlling infectious diseases and other communicable health threats. The work includes surveillance of infectious diseases, outbreak investigation, vaccination policy, and infection prevention and control in healthcare facilities and in the community. The aim is to reduce transmission, protect high‑risk groups, and maintain public confidence during health events.

Key activities include systematic surveillance and reporting of notifiable diseases, analysis of trends, and early warning of outbreaks. When an outbreak is detected, authorities conduct case finding, contact tracing when appropriate, and implement infection control measures and risk communication. Guidelines and recommendations for vaccination, hygiene, and infection prevention are developed for healthcare providers, schools, workplaces, and the general public. The work is performed with input from epidemiologists, laboratorians, clinicians, and public health officials.

Organization and governance: In Sweden, smittskydd is coordinated by the Public Health Agency (Folkhälsomyndigheten) in collaboration with regional authorities and county councils. Notifiable diseases are reported to national authorities, and specialists such as smittskyddsläkare provide expert guidance. The system also includes laboratory support and communication strategies for prevention and response. Internationally, smittskydd activities align with guidelines from the World Health Organization and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and Sweden participates in cross-border surveillance and information sharing.