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Friso Gentsch / dpa
The German Association of General Practitioners has warned of excessive prices for surgical and FFP2 masks in online retail and demanded fixed prices.
"It would make sense to ensure that the masks are sold at fair prices," said chairman Ulrich Weigeldt of the editorial network Germany (RND).
It must be prevented that - as with the first lockdown last spring with protective masks, disinfectants and toilet paper - exorbitant prices.
"For example, a fixed price could be set for this, which must not be exceeded," said Weigeldt.
The federal and state governments agreed on Tuesday that masks that protect better than everyday masks made of fabric will have to be worn on buses, trains and shops.
These can be surgical masks, FFP2 masks or KN95 masks, which have a comparable standard.
Are new bottlenecks looming now?
Due to the introduction of the FFP2 mask requirement in Bavaria, which has been in force since Monday, there was at times a rush for these protective masks.
In pharmacies in particular, masks were at times scarce.
In addition, some providers increased their prices, but by no means all.
The price range is strikingly high.
In stationary retail or pharmacies, five to seven euros per item are required;
In online trading, there are offers for end consumers for 1.50 euros or less.
When buying, you should pay attention to the CE mark - and the four-digit number behind it, which the respective testing institute specifies.
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