German Chancellor Angela Merkel wants to close bars, restaurants and gyms to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. Merkel has said schools and nurseries are to be kept open. Merkel wants all state heads to agree to this move that will help curb the spread of the virus.
Under the new restrictions, people will be permitted to go out only with members of their household and with members from one other household. Rule breakers will be punished, but the details weren't given.
As per data by the Robert Koch Institute, the number of cases in Germany increased by 11,409 on Tuesday taking the total number to 449,275. the total death toll in Germany due to the virus is 10,098.
Shops would be allowed to remain open as long they follow hygiene protocols, but if the 16 heads of state agree, fitness studios, discos and cinemas will close along with theatres, opera houses and concert venues. Restaurants will be allowed to offer takeaways. Economy Minister Peter Altmaier said Germany was likely to reach 20,000 new infections a day by the end of the week. Merkel warned, if precautions aren't taken, the nation's healthcare system could hit breaking point if coronavirus infections continue to spiral.
As per the draft, brothels, swimming pools, cosmetic studios, massage parlours and tattoo studios will need to close doors, but, physiotherapy services and hairdressers will be allowed to remain open. 'Necessary and specifically non-tourist' overnight stays will be allowed to stay open. As per the draft, the government wanted to provide financial aid to the firms affected by the closure.
The restrictions will stay in place till November. Leaders will convene in two weeks to decide whether adjustments are needed.
