Chancellor advocates for bold measures in COVID-19 outbreak zones

Helge Braun, the Chief of Staff, has urged city-states to enforce stricter measures to combat the rapid increase in coronavirus cases, particularly in regions with high infection rates.

In a series of intensive talks with major cities like Berlin and Bremen, Braun emphasised the importance of enforcing measures, stating that what matters is not just what is on paper, but what is happening in reality. He reiterated that the accommodation ban is the mildest means among potential measures, and if necessary, it can be used.

Braun highlighted the concern of states with lower infection numbers about the virus spreading from hotspot regions. He stressed the need for quick control over these regions, which can only be achieved by reconsidering contact restrictions.

However, Braun also mentioned that the accommodation ban is not necessary when applying the regional hotspot strategy. This strategy, he suggested, could be a potential approach to managing travel restrictions.

Braun's calls for action come as some major cities are experiencing a surge in cases, with the incidence of 50 being exceeded in certain regions. He warned that if the numbers get out of control now, infection numbers could only be stopped with very drastic measures.

This rapid increase in numbers may mean that contact tracing in health departments is no longer effective. Braun and others have agreed that an accommodation ban is an instrument that can be used if necessary, but he stressed that it is the mildest and simplest means.

Despite the challenges, Braun is hopeful that specific measures will be taken in Berlin and Bremen to prevent a second wave of coronavirus infections. However, the exact measures were not detailed in the provided search results.

Braun also mentioned a "difficult phase" regarding travel restrictions among federal states. He issued a clear demand to the city-states: the measures must be enforced to prevent the virus from spreading further and overwhelming the health system.