An interview with the German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach with the “Rheinische Post” caused quite a stir. In it, the Social Democrat probably spoke of an “incurable immune deficiency” after corona infections. But moments later a correction followed on Twitter: There was a technical error in the release of the interview. Lauterbach explained that he didn’t put it that way.
The conversation published on Saturday discussed, among other things, future pandemic policy and what risks and dangers the minister sees. In the first version of the interview, Lauterbach is quoted as saying: “It is worrying what we see in people who have had multiple corona infections. Studies now show very clearly that those affected often suffer from an immune deficiency that can no longer be cured.”
Corrected version via Twitter
This statement was criticized from several quarters. Finally, Lauterbach rowed back Monday night, explaining in a tweet that a technical transmission error had occurred in his ministry. It should have said: “Studies now show very clearly that those affected often suffer from an immune deficiency of which we do not yet know the duration.” There is currently no question of an incurable immune deficiency.
In other words, the correction message was overlooked by employees of his department. While a debate has now started on social media about which statements by the Minister of Health are still influenced by “transmission errors”, a journalist from the “Rheinische Post” took him under his wing. It is true that his editorial team received an authorized version of the conversation, i.e. a version that had been previously proofread by the interviewee. However, it is quite possible that there was an “internal error”. “I don’t think it’s appropriate to call him a liar,” Jan Drebes said on Twitter.
Mask obligation in public transport over long distances
Given the current easing of the contagion situation, the German federal government is planning two more major easing measures. At the beginning of February, both the Corona Working Conditions Regulation and the mouth mask obligation in long-distance public transport should fall. In local transport, the federal states currently have different strict rules. These should not be standardized for the time being.
Regarding the repeal of the Corona Regulation on occupational safety and health, it was said last week that “binding requirements for operational infection protection will be replaced by non-binding recommendations that will enable companies and governments to implement practical and effective operational measures to take in the event of renewed local or industry-specific outbreaks of infection”.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
