As Covid-19 infections fade, German Health Minister Jens Spahn urged that the mask requirement for outdoor activities be lifted.
In an interview with Funke Media Group, Spahn said, "With declining incidence rates, we should proceed in stages." “As a starting step, mandatory masks may be left outside.”
Face masks will continue to be recommended "when in doubt," such as while traveling or attending a conference inside, he said.
The number of Covid-19-related deaths in Germany has decreased to 18, according to the Robert Koch Institute health agency's website, the fewest since October.
