Protection against infection; information on isolation facilities

In the case of certain infectious diseases (life-threatening, highly contagious diseases such as haemorrhagic fever), the Infection Protection Act stipulates that persons who are ill or suspected of being ill with these diseases must be isolated immediately in a hospital or a facility suitable for these diseases due to their particular danger. The (federal) states must ensure that the necessary rooms, facilities and means of transportation are available. In Germany, 7 so-called special isolation wards have been set up for this purpose. Information on this can be found on the website of the Robert Koch Institute (see "Further links").

In accordance with the Infection Protection Act, other sick persons, suspected cases of illness, suspected cases of infection and excretors may be ordered to be isolated in a suitable hospital or in another suitable manner, insofar and as long as this is necessary to prevent the spread of the communicable disease. The responsible regional authorities must ensure that the necessary rooms, facilities and means of transportation as well as the necessary personnel are available to carry out isolation measures outside the home. If necessary, rooms and facilities must be created and maintained by the (federal) states.

A person affected (sick person, person suspected of being ill, etc.) must be forcibly segregated if they do not comply with segregation orders or if this can be assumed based on their previous behavior. Compulsory isolation in exceptional cases, like all isolation measures, serves to protect the population and combat communicable diseases.

Enforcement measures

The competent authority orders the necessary protective measures in accordance with §§ 28 ff. Infection Protection Act, to the extent and for as long as this is necessary to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. If isolation or quarantine measures need to be taken to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, the local competent health authority shall advise the enforcement authorities. In the event of imminent danger, the public health department can also order the necessary measures directly. It must inform the competent authority immediately.

Further information on the provision of rooms, facilities and means of transport as well as personnel for the implementation of isolation measures can be obtained from your responsible municipality, municipal association or city.