German Chancellor Angela Merkel In Poor Health? Germans Feel Leader's Health Status Should Be Private

After German Chancellor Angela Merkel had been seen shaking during recent public appearances, concerns arose from the German public about her health. At the same time, many Germans believe her health should be a private issue, according to a poll conducted by German publication Augsberger Allgemeine.

Among 4,495 voters, 59% told the newspaper that Merkel's health should remain a private matter. Another 34% were in favor of Merkel's health details being public record, while 7% were undecided.

Merkel, who turns 65 years, said she was "fine" after meeting Wednesday with the Prime Minister of Finland.

If Merkel were to be facing a major health issue, some in her center-right Christian Democratic Union party (CDU) may believe it would be time for her to step down. Merkel already does not plan to seek re-election as the head of the party in 2021.

Annegret Kramp Karrenbauer is the next in line to take over as chancellor, as she is the leader of the CDU party.

Merkel began her term in 2005. As chancellor, she led Europe's strongest economy through the eurozone crisis and the 2015 influx of refugees from Syria and Iraq. Young people who grew up during the relatively strong economy under her administration have been known as "Generation Merkel."