Health Minister Spahn: British virus mutant by more than 22 percent

Britain’s most contagious virus mutation now accounts for a significantly higher proportion of new infections in Germany than two weeks ago. Health Minister Spahn announced.

The probably much more contagious variant of the corona virus discovered in Britain is spreading rapidly in Germany, according to Federal Health Minister Jens Spahn. According to new data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the proportion of this mutation in the positive samples examined increased from almost six percent to more than 22 percent in two weeks, according to Spahn at a news conference in Berlin. “We have to hope that the variant will soon become the dominant one for us as well,” he emphasized. The participation of the British variant doubles every week.

The South African mutation also has a 1.5 percent share in Germany, Spahn said. The RKI evaluated 23,000 positive test results on a representative sample and other data.

More information on the mutation on Friday

Spahn made it clear that the number of infections had continued to decline overall. This is encouraging and shows that the protective measures are working. Spahn also considers that the greater diffusion of the variants is important for the debate on the relaxation of the blocks. This Friday, he and RKI boss Lothar Wieler would give further evaluations.

Although he has nothing against opening plans that are based on the incidence values ​​of the spread of the virus, Spahn said. But it is essential that everyone is aware of the importance of mutations. Every two weeks “where we are” should be checked. Spahn urged people in Germany to abide by the rules and exercise caution. “We make a difference – every day.”

The British variant of the virus is estimated to be at least 35 percent more contagious than the conventional one. During the analyzes, variants are not checked in all corona tests. The experts pointed to regional differences and possible gaps.

Ten million doses of vaccine are expected

The positive news from the Health Minister: vaccines are picking up speed in Germany. Ten million new doses of vaccines are expected in Germany by the end of next week. Especially in view of the rapid spread of mutations, it is even more important to accept this vaccination offer: “If you wait, you risk a serious disease,” said the CDU politician.

Spahn finds skepticism about the vaccine from the manufacturer AstraZeneca inappropriate. Side effects are in the range of expectations. The vaccine is safe: “I can only announce that all doses are vaccinated.”

The federal government wants to fund rapid tests

Finance Minister Olaf Scholz has promised that the federal government will take over the financing of the planned free rapid tests. “Well, I have my full support, and we will do it financially,” said the SPD politician at an event organized by the Bavarian SPD. “I think we can still afford that now.” He had already assured Spahn of his support last week.

Spahn announced yesterday that starting March 1, all citizens should be able to get tested for the corona virus by trained personnel free of charge. Free rapid tests are planned at testing centers, clinics and pharmacies, with which a result can be determined in about 15 minutes. This is a nasal or throat swab. However, antigen tests are not considered as accurate as other PCR tests. According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), a positive result must therefore be confirmed by a PCR test.

Self-assessments are verified

Another option that is currently being examined is the so-called rapid tests for laity. These tests are freely available on the market and can also be performed by individuals without extensive training. Some countries are already using this trial option. His department is in negotiations with manufacturers to secure minimum quantities for the German market through framework agreements, Spahn said. “These test options can contribute to a safe daily life”, especially in schools and day care centers.