Germany has extended social distancing restrictions to June 29th and here’s what the new rules require you to do to keep from contracting the coronavirus. The federal government says that if a coronavirus outbreak occurs then further contact restrictions or measures can be implemented.
The restrictions may differ slightly in each of Germany’s 16 federal states. Check with state authorities for the most up-to-date restrictions list.
- In order to prevent the coronavirus from spreading and to protect individuals from becoming infected, people in Germany must continue to maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 metres from each other in public places (excluding families and people who live in the same household)
- Currently, people from two separate households are allowed to meet in public. Now, individual states can choose to keep this rule or allow up to 10 people – or the members of two households – to meet in public
- Private gatherings are allowed – but people are urged to stick to social distancing rules – again, though, this can vary from state to state
- The government recommends that residents keep the number of people they are in contact with as low as possible and keep their circle of friends/family as consistent as possible.
- In certain public places, such as shops and public transport, the use of face masks is mandatory
Read more information on German Laws and legislation here: Legal News and Guides – Germany
The government and states have agreed on hygiene and distancing plans for areas such as sport, culture and transport to allow the reopening of more public life.
When it comes to meetings (such as in the workplace or at home), these are the new rules:
- Hygiene and distance rules should also be implemented for private meetings at home in closed rooms, and the number of people should be measured according to the possibility of observing the 1.5 metre distance rule
- Sufficient ventilation should be provided through opening windows and the number of people should be limited accordingly
- Where possible, private meetings should be held outdoors, as there is a considerably lower risk of infection
- The traceability of all meeting participants should be guaranteed
Throughout the pandemic, you should also try and follow these guidelines:
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow, use disposable tissues and throw them away
- Wash your hands regularly, especially after being outside and before you eat
- Avoid crowds or groups of people
- Avoid gestures, such as shaking hands or hugging
- Ventilate rooms in your home regularly
- Try to avoid using public transport when possible
- Try and avoid travelling if possible – even within Germany (there are many border restrictions at the moment)
- Try and avoid shopping during busy periods
- Keep a distance of 1.5 to 2 metres from other people