Will Germans have to deal with new Covid-linked limitations in autumn?

In the outline of the strategies to fight COVID-19 spread in winter and autumn, Karl Lauterbach, the Minister for Health is contemplating the reintroduction of compulsory masking in indoor locations in Germany till the end of the year. 

Seven-point strategy to fight COVID 

In last Friday statement, Lauterbach stated that the country needs to be ready for new coronavirus outbreaks in the year’s cooler half and that new regulations would be implemented for winter and autumn. 

The details of the plan includes;

• Fresh immunization drive using 3 distinct vaccines
• Amendment of the program for free test for COVID
• Enhancing medical stockpiles of drugs effective against the virus
• Upgrading the hygiene of nursing homes and similar facilities
• Creating more efficient data sharing system particularly for empty ICU beds
• Limiting childcare centers and school closures as well as reviewing contact and hygiene guidelines
• Reviewing the Infection Protection Act in advance to its September expiration date. 

Fresh masking laws are coming?

Lauterbach declined comment on the news going around that the government wants to introduce mandatory mask-wearing in indoor locations like shops, bars, and restaurants in the cooler months with a “O-bis-O” arrangement.

Last Friday, there was a report by Welt German government was giving compulsory masking a thought based on increasing infection count. Mandatory masking will also stop the dissemination of other respiratory infections, they thought. Since April when other COVID-19 limitations were rescinded, the use of mask is only mandatory in public transportation and in facilities containing vulnerable people like nursing homes and hospitals. 

Government to reveal revised Infection Protection Act in July

The current Infection Protection Act which provides legal backing to government actions is expiring in September. The new 7-point plan will replace it afterward. 

Recently, the burden of examining and telling the government the COVID-19 rules that were most effective in combating the virus was laid on a scientific health commission. Their decision is likely to impact the government’s next action.