In view of the continued critical corona situation, virologist Melanie Brinkmann warned against the elimination of protective instruments such as the obligation to wear a mask. It is still “absolutely important” to avoid infections, said the professor from the Helmholtz Center for Infection Research on Monday in a hearing in the Bundestag. With further easing, the number of infections rose again. With openings, unvaccinated people who had previously been encapsulated would also be brought more into the action. Even particularly vulnerable groups could not protect themselves one hundred percent.
Brinkmann said it was important to maintain instruments that worked. This is known from masks in areas where many people come together indoors. Uniform rules would be very welcome by society. Many are currently “of the wrong assumption that the summer will be relaxed”. Although there was a seasonal effect in the summers of 2020 and 2021, there were strict measures at these times. If lifted, the numbers could also rise in the summer.
The Bonn virologist Hendrik Streeck said that the pandemic was in a different phase. There are unprecedented numbers of infections, but the burden on the clinics has decoupled from this. With better weather in summer, one can expect a decrease in the number of infections. This is “a good time to scale back measures in a prudent manner” and to part with those whose effectiveness has not been clearly proven. He mentioned access rules such as 2G and 3G.