Some European Countries Are Restarting Coronavirus Lockdowns

Over the last few weeks, countries around the world have increasingly seen a resurgence in coronavirus case numbers. As hospital admission rates continue to rise, many governments are trying to take proactive measures to mitigate catastrophic deaths and community spread.

Earlier today, as reported by Reuters, German Chancellor Angela Merkel announced that Germany will be instituting new lockdown policies, in an effort to quell quickly rising case numbers in the country. The provisions include that “Restaurants, bars, theatres, cinemas, pools and gyms will be shut and concerts cancelled.”

Similarly, France is expected to also issue strict new measures this week to combat rising case numbers as well, including possible stay-at-home orders.

Indeed, both countries have not had an easy few months regarding Covid-19. As of today, October 28, 2020, the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center reports nearly 475,000+ cases in Germany, and a stunning 1.2 million+ cases in France thus far. Europe was especially hard hit during the height of the pandemic earlier this year, which forced significant restrictions on many countries. For example, Italy faced one of the largest initial waves of case numbers in the Spring, forcing the country to go into strict lockdown.

More countries are likely to soon follow similar lockdown procedures. Per the Hopkins Resource Center, global cases of coronavirus have surpassed 44 million+. The patterns thus far have continued to indicate that the spread of the virus is extensive and quite difficult to control. As public health experts continue to advise the importance of masks, social distancing, and tailored restrictions, leaders are also grappling with economic and financial struggles.

Indeed, as the world approaches the brink of another wave of coronavirus, only time will tell as to how best to approach and manage this devestating pandemic in the coming months.