The Swedish government on Friday announced new restrictions and advised public employees to work remotely, where possible, as part of efforts to curb a rise in coronavirus cases.
Alcohol sales were to be stopped from 20:00 as of Thursday, and at most four indoor patrons would be allowed to sit at the same table, Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said. The earlier cap was eight people.
"Unfortunately, the situation continues to be very serious with a high spread of infection," Lofven said.
The country of 10.3 million has seen roughly 367,000 infections and almost 8,000 coronavirus-related deaths in total.
Sweden has attracted international attention for taking a much more relaxed approach to managing the coronavirus pandemic, especially early on, compared to its European neighbours.
In the latest about-turn, commuters across the country are now advised to use face masks on public transport "when crowing was unavoidable," for instance during rush hours.
The Public Health Agency was shortly to list the times, said Johan Carlson, head of the agency.
The agency has previously not recommended the use of masks, arguing that keeping a sufficient physical distance was more essential.
Shops, gyms
Shopping centres, shops and gyms were to limit the number of patrons to avoid crowding and could face closure if this was not heeded, the government said.
Other measures included that high school students reverting to remote schooling until January 24.
People employed by the state, regions or municipalities were advised where possible to work from home until January 24, deputy prime minister Isabella Lovin said.
Public sports centres, swimming pools and museums would be closed during that period, too.
Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf said this week the country "failed" in its response to the pandemic.
"I think we have failed. We have a large number who have died and that is terrible," the king said in a clip broadcast on Thursday from an upcoming end-of-year documentary on the royal family made by public broadcaster SVT.
