Weekly Updates from the German Parliament (Bundestag)

Weekly Updates from the German Parliament (Bundestag)

Germany Strengthens Pandemic Measures with Hospitalization Incidence Threshold

In a significant move to combat the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the German government has agreed upon an escalation of measures based on the hospitalization incidence threshold. This decision was made during a meeting on 18 November 2021, attended by Chancellor Angela Merkel, Chancellor-in-waiting Olaf Scholz, and the 16 state premiers.

The key provisions of the Draft Bill to Amend the Infection Protection Act, which is set to be discussed in the Bundestag this week, focus on using the hospitalization incidence as a benchmark. This new measure aims to trigger progressively tougher anti-pandemic measures.

• Hospitalization Incidence Threshold: The hospitalization incidence, defined as the number of COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 residents over seven days, will serve as a critical new measure for triggering restrictions.

If hospitalizations exceed: - 3 per 100,000, public leisure facilities will operate under the "2G" rule (only vaccinated or recovered persons allowed). - 6 per 100,000, the "2G+" rule will apply (vaccinated or recovered plus an additional test requirement). - 9 per 100,000, further measures such as contact restrictions will be implemented.

This change aims to make the threshold for interventions more relevant to hospital burden and healthcare capacity, addressing criticisms of relying solely on the prior seven-day incidence of cases.

• State Autonomy: The draft bill provides for a limited federal state opening clause, allowing states to decide on further measures like canceling events or temporarily closing leisure facilities.

Other notable points from the Draft Bill include:

• Punishable offenses: Blank vaccination certificates and their trade will be made punishable, as will issuing vaccination or test certificates for deceitful purposes. Doctors who issue false health certificates will be criminally liable in the future.
• Vaccination Rates: More than two-thirds of citizens are fully vaccinated in the country.
• Healthcare Capacity: Hospitals and intensive care units are reaching their capacity limits.
• Subsidy Increase: The GKV subsidy will be increased by another seven billion euros in 2022, totaling 28.5 billion euros.
• Expanded Penal Laws: The penal laws regarding the forgery of health certificates will be expanded.
• Hospital Surcharge: Hospitals will receive an additional care surcharge for treating COVID-19 patients.
• Extended Regulations: Regulations such as simplified access to basic security, COVID-19 Occupational Health and Safety Ordinance measures, parental leave extensions, suspension of the annual minimum income threshold, and data processing authorization for employers will be extended.
• 3G Rule: A mandatory 3G rule will be implemented in workplaces and public transport.
• Home Office: Home office will be required where it is operationally possible for employees.

This update to the Infection Protection Act, which also includes a vaccine mandate for health workers, was passed in December 2021. The aim is to provide options for action to secure the pandemic while respecting fundamental rights.

1. The science behind the hospitalization incidence threshold is crucial in making these decisions.
2. Sleep is essential for maintaining a strong immune system, which is crucial in fighting chronic diseases like COVID-19.
3. Medical-conditions and chronic diseases like cancer, respiratory conditions, and digestive health issues can be exacerbated by stress, which may rise during pandemics.
4. Eye-health can also be affected by extended screen time due to working from home during lockdowns, a common occurrence in times of pandemic.
5. Hearing loss might increase in people who are frequently exposed to loud noises in their work or home environments due to the stress and chaos of pandemics.
6. Mental-health issues can arise from pandemic-related stress, isolation, and financial burdens, making it essential to prioritize mental health and wellness.
7. Fitness and exercise can help strengthen the immune system and manage stress, making them important parts of a holistic health approach.
8. Autoimmune disorders can be aggravated by environmental factors, which might change during pandemics due to climate-change-related disruptions.
9. Manufacturing industries might need to adapt their processes to ensure worker safety during pandemics.
10. Nutrition plays a vital role in boosting the immune system, making it essential to maintain a balanced diet during these challenging times.
11. Aging can weaken the immune system, making older people more susceptible to severe health consequences during pandemics.
12. Cardiovascular-health should be a priority, as heart disease can be a significant comorbidity for COVID-19 patients.
13. Industries across the board, from retail to transportation, have been impacted by pandemic-induced disruptions.
14. Cybersecurity measures are crucial to protect sensitive health data during times of heightened online activity due to pandemics.
15. Lifestyle changes, such as working from home and self-quarantine, can affect fashion and beauty routines.
16. Many people have turned to food and drink for comfort during pandemics, leading to potential unhealthy habits.
17. People have been investing more in their homes and gardens to create safe and comfortable spaces during lockdowns.
18. Businesses have been hit hard by pandemic-related shutdowns and economic instability, putting wealth management and banking and insurance sectors under pressure.
19. Venture-capital and private-equity firms have been looking for innovative solutions in sectors like fintech, real-estate, and the stock-market to navigate the uncertain economic landscape.
20. The gadget industry has seen a surge in demand for devices that promote remote work and entertainment during lockdowns.
21. Cloud-computing and data storage have become more important as businesses transition to digital platforms during the pandemic.
22. The technological advancements in artificial-intelligence and automation are expected to reshape many industries in the post-pandemic world.
23. Relationships have been tested during the pandemic, with some people finding solace in their pets while others have struggled to maintain connections.
24. Travel restrictions have made it difficult for people to visit loved ones, further straining relationships.
25. The automotive industry has had to adapt to the new normal, with cars becoming virus-resistant and electric to reduce emissions contributing to climate-change.
26. Books have seen a resurgence in popularity during lockdowns, as people turn to them for escapism and knowledge.
27. Online shopping has become a lifeline for many during pandemic-related shutdowns.
28. Social-media platforms have been a crucial source of information, entertainment, and connection during the pandemic.
29. Movies and TV shows have provided comfort and distraction during the stressful times of the pandemic, with many people turning to streaming services to pass the time.

Read also: