German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned that her country was in serious trouble with the rising cases of Covid-19, urging all unvaccinated adults to urgently vaccinate in an effort to contain the problem.
"Germany is in a really serious situation. The situation is dramatic. It's time to act" said caretaker Chancellor Merkel after the meeting yesterday with the heads of all German states, calling on the undecided to get vaccinated against Covid-19, stressing that "we would be better off if the vaccination gap were not so great."
Following consultation between the federal government and the States, Germany has decided on the compulsory vaccination of the employees in hospitals, nursing homes and patient rehabilitation centres, who will also receive an emergency allowance in recognition of their cooperation.
"I think this is the right thing to do," said Chancellor Olaf Scholz adding that something that was inconceivable six months ago is now possible.
Meanwhile businesses affected by Covid-19 measures will continue to receive financial support from the State until March 22, 2022, while special measures will be taken to support the self-employed and workers in the arts. State aid was scheduled to stop at the end of this year.
"The list of measures is not enough," said Chancellor Angela Merkel, who reiterated the importance of vaccination. "It's not too late, even now," to achieve the goal of 27 million booster shots by Christmas.
[ANA/GCT]