coronavirus
The Swiss Federal Council suspended the latest measures against the corona pandemic on Wednesday. As of Friday, the obligation to isolate infected people and the obligation to wear a mask on public transport and in health facilities will fall. However, structures must be maintained so that, if necessary, a quick response can be given.
03.31.2022 10.46
Online since yesterday, 10:46 am
With the return to the “normal situation” according to the Epidemics Act, the main responsibility for protecting the population once again falls on the cantons. Specifically, the Swiss government has decided to lift the obligation to isolate infected people and wear masks on public transport and in healthcare facilities from April 1. In addition, the Swiss Covid app will be temporarily disabled.
The Federal Council justified the expected lifting of the measures with the fact that “thanks to the high level of immunization of the population” there has not been a significant increase in the number of Covid 19 patients in intensive care units in recent weeks. “There is little likelihood that public health will be threatened in the coming months,” he said in a statement.
“End of Special Situation”
The Swiss news agency SDA summarized the most important questions and answers about the “end of the special situation”:
- Is the Covid-19 pandemic over?
The pandemic does not end with the return to the so-called “normal situation” according to the Epidemics Act and the transfer of responsibility back to the cantons. The Federal Council writes that seasonal waves of disease can also be expected in the future. A transition phase is to be applied by spring 2023; Structures in the cantons, for example for testing, vaccination and contact tracing, must be maintained so that new developments can react quickly.
- Do you have to stay home after a positive test?
The obligation for infected people to isolate themselves for five days falls on Friday. However, Swiss authorities are warning people to stay at home if they show symptoms to avoid possible new Covid-19 infections.
- Are symptom tests still free?
Yes, because the Swiss Confederation continues to cover the cost of testing for people who have symptoms.
- Do masks still need to be worn somewhere?
The mandatory mask requirement on public transport and in healthcare facilities and homes across Switzerland will be lifted on Friday. Wearing a mask to protect yourself and others will become voluntary. Cantons can also prescribe masks on their territory. In Bern and Geneva, for example, masks must still be used in hospitals and nursing homes.
- Will certificates continue to be issued for those who were vaccinated, for those who were proven to have recovered and for those who tested negative?
Yes, because they may still be needed for trips abroad. As of February 17, certificates no longer need to be presented in Switzerland. However, cantons have the power to make certification mandatory in their area.