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The week ends as it began: with a large number of new corona cases. The federal scientific working group urgently recommends stricter measures. The cantons are also asking the federal government to act. SRF science editor Thomas Häusler says what leeway authorities have, plus a second lockdown.
Thomas Häusler
Science editor
SRF News: The head of the federal task force says that now “every day counts.” At the same time, it will probably be a while before more stringent measures are taken. The canton of Thurgau, for example, will only introduce the mask requirement in one week. Is it taking too long?
Thomas Häusler: One week would clearly be too long. Right now, cases are doubling every seven to ten days. And the 3105 cases today were infected about a week ago due to the incubation period. That means: even if we could stop the spread completely immediately, cases would increase from 4,000 to 6,000 a day for about a week. This also increases the number of hospitalizations; this can no longer be prevented.
A study has shown: if the strict measures had been introduced a week earlier in the spring, it is likely that 80 percent fewer people would have died from Corona at that time.
The cantons want a public access indoor mask requirement or for as many employees as possible to return to headquarters. Will that be enough?
Experts believe that these are currently the most important measures. Today, many broadcasts are done indoors. Then you have to do something. This is where wearing a mask comes in. Because it is often difficult to keep your distance and ventilate enough.
There is no single measure that works 100 percent. That is why you have to combine them.
If many people stay in the home office, this prevents broadcasts at work. Additional contacts between people are reduced, also in the dining room and on the way to work. There is no single measure that works 100 percent. That is why you have to combine them.
Is there another lockdown like in the spring if the numbers keep increasing? Would other measures also be possible?
The Cantonal Directors of Health Conference (GDK) also calls for a restriction of public and private meetings. These are also currently increasing the number of cases. Sweden, which is considered flexible, has had a maximum limit of 50 people for months.
Clubs and discos may also be subject to more stringent requirements that extend until they close. Important events could be banned. The cantons have these options. The last two things would be very painful for those affected. One should hope that less drastic measures, i.e. masks and home office, will suffice.
Interview by Mario Sturny.
