Unfortunately, ten new infections are reported on October 22, bringing the incidence back up to 42.99.
The incidence value is constantly changing, and it is possible to exceed or fall below the threshold values of 35 or 50 on a daily basis.
"That was a reason for me to refrain from issuing a general decree so far," says Lord Mayor Frank Klingebiel, "and tomorrow, Friday, the new state ordinance will come into force, which, according to an agreement reached by the state government with representatives of the municipal umbrella organizations last Monday, will contain transparent, uniform state regulations. In this agreement, it was important for us municipal representatives to have a state-wide automatism for measures."
According to today's assessment, the outbreak in Salzgitter cannot be attributed to one major event or a localized area, but is multi-layered and therefore difficult to isolate.
Another critical aspect of the announced regulation is the rule that a face mask "should" only be worn if the incidence is 35, but "must" be worn if the incidence is 50 or higher.
As the threshold values could vary daily between 35 and 50, this would result in an unmanageable and almost impossible to implement regulatory requirement. Incidence is undoubtedly an important parameter, but this value also requires a differentiated approach.
A high incidence that is due to a localized outbreak must be assessed differently than a similarly high incidence figure that is the result of several smaller outbreaks in a large city like Salzgitter.
"For me, the first question that arises for all measures taken and not taken is whether they make sense," explains Klingebiel.
And he continues: "Is the measure really suitable for curbing the incidence of infection? Because only then will I achieve acceptance among the population and, in the best case, the hoped-for success.
A general decree making it compulsory to wear a face mask in the city centers of Lebenstedt and Salzgitter-Bad will be issued if the incidence exceeds 50. Until then, from Friday, if the incidence is between 35 and 50, face masks must be worn in this area."