Germany: Some Shops Reopen As Coronavirus Outbreak Gets ‘Under Control’

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April 20, 2020

TOPLINE

Germany is the latest European country to cautiously begin reopening certain non-essential businesses as health officials claim the coronavirus outbreak in the country is under control.

Across Germany today many states, but not all, are introducing steps to lift restrictions that have … [+] had a deep economic and social impact, including the reopening of smaller-size stores

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KEY FACTS

Bicycle shops, car dealerships and small non-essential shops reopened across Germany on Monday, as the number of new infections in the country continues to slow.

While social distancing measures remain in place, people are strongly encouraged to wear face masks while out.

Health minister Jens Spahn last week said social distancing measures had been successful and that the outbreak in Germany was under control as new infections fell.

Germany banned gatherings of more than two people on March 22, while restaurants and non essential shops were told to close. Some states, not all, issued a lockdown, but most businesses will not reopen until May 3.

Germany has the fifth highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the world, but one of the lowest death rates, and far lower than its hard-hit European neighbours such as Italy, Spain, France and the U.K.

This is thought to be because of widespread and early testing and the availability of specialist medical equipment. Germany has reported around 145,000 cases to date, and just over 4,600 deaths.

Key background: Europe has seen the largest cluster of countries worst-hit by coronavirus, and on Monday, confirmed coronavirus cases in Spain topped 200,000, making it the highest cluster of cases outside the U.S. But there are signs that Europe is gradually and cautiously restarting daily life. Denmark has reopened schools for children up to 11 years old, while tattoo parlours, spas, salons and hairdressers are reopening. Gardening centres and public parks are open in Austria, while all shops could reopen on May 2.

Further reading: Europe’s Comeback Tracker: You Can Now Get A Tattoo In Denmark And Buy Books In Italy As Countries Gradually Reopen (Forbes)

Coronavirus outbreak in Germany is ‘under control’, says health minister (The Local Germany)

When Will You Be Able To Travel To Europe Again? (Forbes)

Coronavirus case numbers in Germany (Robert Koch Institute)

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