Germany Takes Aggressive Measures to Stop the Spread of COVID 19
As countries around the world struggle to come to terms with the ongoing pandemic, Germany is no exception. The country has taken aggressive measures to help limit the spread of the virus, including implementing a major vaccine program to inoculate their citizens. At the same time, it has taken a number of steps to ensure that the vaccine will be as effective as possible. Here, we take a look at how Germany is successfully tackling the pandemic using an array of tactics.
Overview of Germany’s Response to the COVID 19 Pandemic
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Germany has taken numerous steps to limit its spread. This can be seen in their quick response and effective containment plan that included quick, widespread testing and contact tracing. Germany was also one of the first countries to launch a massive public health campaign that included the distribution of face masks, strict social distancing measures, and workplace safety guidelines. Additionally, Germany has put time and effort into finding therapeutics and vaccines to combat the virus.
Vaccine Rollout in Germany
From the start of the pandemic, Germany has prioritized vaccinating its citizens, with the goal being to have at least 70% of German citizens vaccinated by September 2021. Such a goal is an example of the country’s commitment to fighting the pandemic by any means necessary. To achieve this target, the German government has made vaccines available in all of its states, allowing those over the age of 18 to get the shot for free. Germany is also taking care to show its citizens the importance of vaccinations, investing heavily in personal protective equipment such as face masks, and clearly communicating the risks of not getting vaccinated.
The Government’s Guidelines for Vaccines
To ensure the safety of its citizens, the German government has implemented a number of guidelines for the distribution of vaccines. It has mandated that:
- Vaccines must be approved for use by the European Medicines Agency.
- Manufacturers are required to share scientific data and disclose the source of the ingredients.
- Vaccines must meet strict manufacturing and quality control standards.
- Vaccine side-effects must be monitored and reported.
- Vaccines are to be given only to those 18 years of age and older.
Furthermore, Germany has a strict vaccination system that works to ensure that everything is handled properly. All registrants receive a vaccination card that displays their name and the type of vaccine they are given. This card has to be kept up to date, and the vaccination data has to be logged into national electronic health records. This helps to prevent against double-doses and to maintain accurate records of the distribution process.
Effectiveness of Vaccine Rollout
Due to the success of its vaccine program, Germany has seen a dramatic decrease in overall cases and deaths due to the virus. The government’s effective strategy of widespread testing, contact tracing, and implementation of strict preventative measures alongside the initial and booster shots of vaccines has led to a rapid decline in new cases and related hospitalizations. Additionally, the German government is incentivizing its citizens to get vaccinated. It has promised to cover the costs of those over the age of 70, healthcare workers, and other vulnerable groups who are immunized.
The steps taken by the German government to address the pandemic have been successful. The combination of effective containment measures and a comprehensive vaccine rollout have resulted in greatly reduced cases, hospitalizations, and medical visits related to COVID-19. As other countries struggle to find a way to tame the virus, Germany serves as an example of how comprehensive and thoughtful policy can help protect citizens and slow the spread of the virus.
