Schwerin (dpa/mv) - Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's Minister of Health Stefanie Drese (SPD) welcomed the leeway planned by the federal government for the states in combating the corona pandemic, but still expects clarity on future test management. "It is important that we in the countries have the opportunity to expand certain measures individually and, above all, quickly if the pandemic situation should worsen regionally. I am therefore glad that the draft provides for this," said Drese in a Thursday in Schwerin spread message clearly.
The federal government presented the draft for the new Infection Protection Act on Wednesday. Corona protection measures are anchored in it, which should apply from autumn. This includes a nationwide mask requirement on buses, trains and planes. In addition, masks and tests will be compulsory in hospitals and care facilities from October. Depending on the infection process, the federal states should then also impose mask requirements in publicly accessible indoor areas or in local transport and be allowed to prescribe tests in schools or daycare centers.
"Unfortunately, as of today, we can't say for sure how the situation will develop in the coming autumn and winter. That's why we have to prepare for every scenario," explained Drese. She had announced an autumn-winter plan with corona protection measures for the country for the end of August, which should then be discussed and decided in the cabinet. A large instrument box could help to react in a targeted manner and counteract a possible further wave of infection.
Dreses is convinced that vaccinations and tests will continue to be of great importance in combating the pandemic. "Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is well prepared for this with its vaccination structures," she says. However, it still has to be clarified with the federal government how the test structures are to be maintained and financed in the future against the background of the planned test obligations.
