In Germany, a positive corona test is no longer sufficient for sick leave.
Infected people also have to go to the office, under one condition.
Frankfurt – It has been almost three years since Germany was caught off guard by the corona pandemic.
And tried to curb the spread of the virus with the first of several lockdowns.
In the meantime, public life in almost all areas has returned to the normality of the times before the crisis.
Corona rules in Germany: Since March 1, 2023, there has no longer been an entitlement to free tests
Most of the Corona rules are now history.
At the end of February 2023, the entitlements to free citizen tests laid down in the test regulation also expired.
If a corona infection is suspected, every citizen has had to dig into their own pockets since March.
PCR tests are only included in patient treatment.
In the meantime, there is no longer any obligation for visitors to take a test in medical practices, hospitals and nursing homes.
However, unlike staff and residents, they must continue to wear masks in medical facilities, at least for now.
This will be the case until April 7th, when the Infection Protection Act that has been in force since October expires, in order to protect risk groups.
Medical facilities can also decide on further protective measures.
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Even a positive corona test no longer necessarily means a shift in the home office.
(symbol photo)
© Felix Schlikis / Imago Images
Corona rules in Germany: You may have to go to the office even with a positive test
Another change applies to all employees.
Since March 1, employees have had to come to work even if a PCR test or rapid test is positive.
The only requirement for being present at the workplace despite a corona infection: Those affected must be free of symptoms.
Because people who have tested positive but are symptom-free can no longer be given sick leave by medical practices.
In addition, the obligation to isolate people with corona is a thing of the past nationwide.
Working despite Corona: individual office at work or home office as options
In future, people who have tested positive and whose employer insists on their presence will have to use a room just for themselves as an individual office.
But then they would have to wear a mouth-nose mask.
Alternatively, people infected with corona without symptoms can work from home if the employer agrees.
In addition, the employer can also suggest to those affected who are symptom-free that they work overtime or use the remaining vacation time until the corona disease is overcome.
Sick leave because of Corona is therefore no longer possible solely because of positive tests, but only because of the symptoms that occur.
If you feel really ill and unable to work after a positive corona test, you should still see a doctor.
He can make a decision accordingly.
(mg)
List of rubrics: © Felix Schlikis / Imago Images
