Information regarding COVID-19 in Germany

Reliable answers and concrete information on how to protect yourself and help others.

Information on the subject of vaccination and testing for members of the public is available in English, Turkish, Russian and Arabic at the country-wide and free-to-call telephone number 0800 0000837.

Information regarding COVID-19 in Germany

Basic knowledge about coronavirus

What is COVID-19? Here you can find general information on modes of transmission, the origin of the virus as well as sickness symptoms. Inform and protect yourself.

Fighting the pandemic together!

We can all do our part to contain the coronavirus by keeping a distance, following hygiene rules and, where there is little room, wearing a community mask.

From suspected infection to isolation

What should I do if I suspect I may be infected with the novel coronavirus? Here you will find information on how to handle symptoms of COVID-19, what to do in a suspected case of novel coronavirus, as well as information on quarantine and isolation.

Vaccines, Immunity and Medicines: Combating COVID-19

Around the world, researchers are working on a COVID-19 vaccine. Read on to learn about the phases of vaccine development and what Germany and the EU are doing to make a vaccine available quickly.

Masking up: FFP2 masks to protect others and yourself

When number of cases is high, community masks are often no longer sufficient. At this point, it has become mandatory to wear FFP2 or other face masks that provide medical protection in public spaces. Find out what you need to know about the masks here.

Beware of scammers and fake news

A number of criminals are currently taking advantage of people’s fears. In addition, fake news about the coronavirus is being circulated. Be careful and protect yourself.

When do I have to quarantine or self-isolate?

What should you do if you seriously suspect that you have COVID-19 or if there is a suspected case in your family, flat-share or at work? And what is the difference between quarantine and self-isolating at home? Read on to learn which rules apply in each case.

Fever, coughing, feeling unwell: Suspicion of COVID-19

In addition to fever, coughing and a runny nose are often symptoms of COVID-19. However, there are also other symptoms that could indicate that you have the disease. Here you can find out how to recognise COVID-19 and what you should do if you suspect you might have it.

Current information for travellers

What should you pay attention to when travelling in Germany or abroad? What rules apply to flights? What regulations must be followed by travellers from risk areas? National and international regulations are continually adapted as the pandemic develops. Here you can find up-to-date and important information for travellers.

Mind Your Mental Health - Adults

Limited contact, restrictions on recreational activities, worrying about falling ill and infecting others and feelings of uncertainty about the future are just a few of the challenges we must contend with during this difficult time. Parents and family members acting as carers are under particular strain. Working from home and having to take precautionary measures when we do go to work have completely altered our professional lives. Many adults are worried about losing their livelihoods, with many having to put their careers fully on pause or significantly slow their plans. Others had just been planning to start their careers, or were still studying and are now left to wonder what the future holds. So it’s no wonder uncertainty and worry are such big parts of our everyday lives. The circumstances we are all currently facing can sometimes bring about feelings of anger or sadness. It’s an understandable response that many people are experiencing.

Mind Your Mental Health - Parents with children

Working from home, home schooling and no play dates or sports allowed – things are not easy for families at the moment. Everyday life has had to be completely reorganised, and the entire family now spends all its time together at home. It’s no wonder then if families are feeling stressed and tense. This can even lead to arguments from time to time, even though that’s not what anybody wants. In addition to all that, parents are worried about their family’s health, and about their careers. Children are often aware that parents are stressed, which often leads to them feeling anxious and stressed themselves.

Mind Your Health – Older people

Many older people have been facing extraordinary challenges during the coronavirus pandemic. They are at greatest risk from the virus. Many are currently feeling lonely and isolated – children and grandchildren can no longer visit as they used to. Even normal occasions like inviting a neighbour round to play cards have had to fall by the wayside. Everyday shopping trips and doctor’s visits may now come with feelings of uncertainty. In addition, the daily reports on television and the radio may exacerbate feelings of fear.

Mind Your Mental Health - People with pre-existing mental health conditions

Coping with stressful mental health conditions has become an even greater challenge due to all the changes in our living conditions. Many activities that would normally have a stabilising effect may no longer be possible for one reason or another – our contact with others is limited, our perspectives have changes, and we may be experiencing additional pressure on top of everything. It may be the case that symptoms of yours are reappearing or are heightened, or you may be dealing with something altogether new. Those suffering pre-existing mental health conditions are being called upon to muster an incredible amount of patience and strength, and are using what resources and coping mechanisms remain with courage and confidence. It is completely understandable that this is not always easy.

Mind Your Mental Health - Medical and care staff

Staff working in hospitals, inpatient and outpatient treatment centres, but also doctor’s surgeries as well are under a great deal of strain just now. Every day, they provide care and treatment to people who depend on their help under extremely challenging conditions. Their workload and responsibilities are enormous burdens to bear, and can be draining. Not to mention the constant worry of becoming infected and passing the infection on to someone in need of care. The question of whether the protective measures taken are sufficient, or whether the virus has already begun to spread within the institution can also be very unsettling in terms of routine work life, and can even lead staff to feel a sense of helplessness. During a time of constant worry and concern for others, it’s important that you also look after yourself.