Merkel announces sweeping curbs to keep germans home in virus fight
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Merkel Announces Sweeping Curbs to Keep Germans Home in Virus Fight
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced a series of sweeping measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus, including a nationwide lockdown, travel restrictions, and closures of non-essential businesses.
In a televised address, Merkel said that the measures are necessary to protect the country's healthcare system and prevent a surge in hospitalizations. The new rules will come into effect on Wednesday and are expected to last for at least four weeks.
Key measures include:
- A nationwide lockdown, with people only allowed to leave their homes for essential reasons such as grocery shopping, medical appointments, and exercise.
- Travel restrictions, with all non-essential travel banned and public transportation reduced.
- Closures of non-essential businesses, including restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
- A ban on public gatherings of more than two people, including weddings and funerals.
- Mandatory mask-wearing in public places.
Merkel also urged Germans to stay at home and avoid non-essential travel, saying that the measures are necessary to "save lives" and prevent a collapse of the healthcare system.
The measures come as Germany struggles to contain the spread of the virus, with over 100,000 cases reported and more than 2,000 deaths.