It is already certain that the lockdown in Germany will be extended beyond January – at least until “mid-February”, it was said last. But is there now a threat of “an even tougher hard-hitting lockdown,” as a leading tabloid newspaper wrote? That is still uncertain, but one thing is certain: Scientists advising Chancellor Angela Merkel and the heads of government of the 16 federal states are calling for the measures to be tightened further.
The panel of experts had warned against overestimating the currently slightly positive trend in new infections, according to participants after a video switch on Monday evening. The scientists therefore issued an impressive warning of the impending danger of mutations in the coronavirus. This can only be contained by further reducing contacts and restricting mobility. A mere extension of the valid restrictions is not enough.
In order to curb the spread of the virus more strongly, the following possible tightenings were discussed in particular:
Curfew
In some federal states it already applies, now it could also come nationwide: the night curfew. Such a drastic measure would aim to further restrict private contacts. For citizens, this would mean that they are no longer allowed to leave their apartments and houses at night – with a few exceptional cases. There is such a curfew in Bavaria, for example. It is valid there from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. In other countries, however, there is resistance to a nationwide regulation – for example in Lower Saxony, which has comparatively low infection rates.
For a tough course: Bavaria’s Prime Minister Markus Söder
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Homeoffice
In addition to private life, the world of work is considered an area where the virus continues to spread. But according to a new study, fewer employees used the opportunity to work from home in November – when the corona numbers rose – than in June, when the situation was more relaxed. Now it is discussed how the quota can be increased. Federal Labor Minister Hubertus Heil is examining the legal options. However, there is resistance from the business community to the obligation to work from home wherever possible.
FFP2 mask requirement
Masks of protection class FFP2 have a higher safety standard and – unlike the simple everyday masks – not only protect the environment better, but also the wearer themselves. In Bavaria, these are already mandatory in buses and trains as well as in shops. At the federal-state round on Tuesday, it should be about introducing such a regulation nationwide. The question of how citizens can be financially supported in purchasing these masks also plays a role.
Comparatively more expensive: FFP2 protective mask
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And schools and daycare centers?
There are no signs that kindergartens and schools will open beyond the currently very limited operation. It is to be expected that the federal and state governments will extend the restrictions that apply until the end of January. Face-to-face teaching in schools should not take place at all, daycare centers only offer emergency care. However, there are significant differences from state to state when implementing these measures.
Chancellor Merkel and the heads of state will be discussing which measures should ultimately be extended or new ones by what date – and then announce their decision. It remains to be seen whether the advisors selected by the Chancellery will be satisfied with this.
wa / fw (dpa, rtr, afp)
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