First it was rejected by the political decision-makers, then recommended and finally made mandatory - now the chapter mask in Germany is (almost) closed after around three years of the coronavirus pandemic.

After wearing a mouth and nose protector in shops, in schools and in most workplaces for a long time, the last federal states have now also lifted the obligation to wear masks in buses and trains. The following also applies to nationwide long-distance transport: Wearing a mask is voluntary.

But even those who decide to protect themselves and others from infection with the corona virus or other pathogens should keep a small supply of masks. Because in some situations there is still a nationwide mask requirement - at least for the time being.

The health and care sector is affected. The Infection Protection Act stipulates that visitors to certain facilities must continue to wear at least one FFP2 mask. An overview:

Visitors to clinics and nursing homes must also present a negative corona test. For employees in the health and care sector, there is also a mask and test obligation.

The mask rules of the Infection Protection Act apply up to and including Good Friday (April 7th) - then the chapter will probably be closed for good.

Sources: Federal Ministry of Health, Infection Protection Act, DPA news agency