In long-distance trains and long-distance buses such as Flixbus, passengers have had to wear FFP2 masks since this Saturday. At the turn of the month, the corresponding new Corona regulations came into force. In the long-distance trains, a surgical mask was sufficient so far, an FFP2 mask was only recommended. According to a spokeswoman, a medical mask has also been sufficient for Flixbus so far.

The federal states decide for themselves in regional transport. However, their health ministers had spoken out in favor of sticking to the applicable mask requirement on buses and trains. In airplanes, on the other hand, the mask is no longer required.

Nationwide, FFP2 masks must also be worn in clinics, nursing homes, medical practices and other healthcare facilities. A negative test is also required when entering care facilities and hospitals. Employees must be tested several times a week.

Even stricter measures possible on your own initiative

The federal and state governments had decided on the new regulations via a further change in the Infection Protection Act, otherwise the remaining corona rules would have expired in September. It also stipulates that the federal states can impose even stricter measures on their own, such as compulsory masks in shops and restaurants or tests in schools and daycare centers. Mask requirements in schools are also possible - but only from class five and as far as it is necessary to maintain "regulated face-to-face teaching".

The federal states can also make further specifications, such as upper visitor limits for events, distance specifications in public spaces or masks outside if distances are not possible. However, the state parliament must first determine that there is a concrete risk to the health system or other important areas of care.