Slovenia's epidemic curve continued its downward trend on Friday however the pressure on hospitals is not waning.

Of the 6,523 swabs taken In the past 24 hours, 2,364 came back positive which is a share of 36.2% while 17 patients died, the national public health institute reported on Friday.

The numbers of new infections were fewer than on Thursday when there was 2,668 new cases while the fall on the week was even more significant with 3,517 cases a week ago.

Currently, there are 41,492 active cases in the country, or 1,067 fewer than the day before.

The seven-day incidence rate per 100,000 has fallen to 2,622 while the 14-day incidence rate now is 2,019 per 100,000 population.

Even though the number of new cases appears to be declining the situation in hospitals is not improving and intensive care units are under particular pressure with the number of ICU patients growing by the day.

There are currently 1,137 hospitalised Covid patients with 289 in intensive care units.

“The daily average is five to seven new patients and we have passed the edge of our capacities that can ensure adequate and professional treatment,” the head of ICU at Ljubljana hospital, Matjaz Jereb said.

He warned that a “disaster” could occur if ICUs continue to be filled.

The government is expected next week to decide on measures to be in place over the Christmas period, particularly with reference to fairs and other events.