The editorial discusses the significant measures taken in Finland to combat COVID-19 as the pandemic began to unfold six years ago. Schools and cultural institutions were closed, gatherings were restricted, and many individuals, especially the elderly, were confined to their homes. The extensive use of remote work became commonplace, culminating in the lockdown of the Uusimaa region, which, in hindsight, seems almost unbelievable. The population largely complied with these measures due to the fear and uncertainty surrounding the virus.

Recent comparative studies, including a report from the EU network Euromomo, have analyzed the impact of the pandemic on mortality rates across different countries. This research reveals the excess mortality linked to COVID-19, measuring how many more people died compared to what statistics would have predicted. Factors such as the impact of imposed restrictions and the deterioration in the treatment of other illnesses during the pandemic are considered in determining these mortality rates, providing a clearer picture of how countries, including Finland, managed the crisis.

The editorial argues that while Finland may have navigated the pandemic relatively well in terms of overall health outcomes, the long-term effects on the youth are becoming increasingly evident. Young people are experiencing significant challenges, including mental health issues and disruptions to their education and social development as a result of the pandemic. This duality in Finland's experience raises important questions about equitable recovery and the support needed for the younger generation to recover from the pandemic's consequences.