German row over plan for workers to need sick note on first day of illness

Government to require a doctor’s sick note from the first day of illness and scrap phone certificates introduced during the pandemic.
Medical groups warn the change will clog surgeries and risk spreading infections as people with minor bugs seek in-person notes.
The move has sparked a political row: CDU defends it citing high sick-leave rates, while SPD ministers urge a review and “workable” solutions.