Following France, Germany also imposes lockdown measures... Merkel says "It will be a tough winter"
[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] Germany's new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases have nearly reached 17,000, marking the highest number since March.
According to German health authorities on the 29th, the number of new cases as of the 28th was recorded at 16,774. This is the highest level since COVID-19 began spreading in earnest in March.
With the sharp increase in new COVID-19 cases, the German federal government and the 16 state governments have decided to implement partial lockdown measures starting from the 2nd of next month. This decision was made based on the assessment that if the number of cases continues to rise, it will be difficult to cope with hospital capacity as well as further spread.
The partial lockdown agreement allows personal gatherings of up to two families, with a maximum of 10 people. Accommodation for travelers will be restricted, and cultural facility operations will be suspended. Restaurants will only be allowed takeout and delivery services, and stores will permit one customer per 10 square meters. However, schools and daycare centers will continue to operate.
Chancellor Angela Merkel said, "It will be a difficult winter," adding, "The number of people receiving treatment in intensive care units has doubled in the past 10 days."
Earlier, France also implemented lockdown measures due to the spread of new COVID-19 cases. President Emmanuel Macron announced in a national address on the 28th (local time) that a lockdown would be imposed across France from midnight on the 30th of this month until at least December 1. However, kindergartens, schools, and elderly care facilities will remain operational.
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