Europe is isolated for the end-of-year holidays, the curfew is postponed until January

The course that Germany is following against the coronavirus pandemic with the strict prohibition of contacts as well as the closure of cultural and entertainment institutions will continue until January 10.

Chancellor Angela Merkel and the prime ministers of the states decided to postpone the restrictive measures for the population due to the pandemic. This was announced by the chancellor after consultations that lasted five hours with the prime ministers of the states (02.11). "In principle, the situation remains as it is now," Merkel told a news conference. On January 4, the prime ministers of the states will consult again with the chancellor, to judge on the further steps. Partial restrictions in force from November were extended last week until December 20th. The purpose of these measures is to reduce the indicator of 7 days of new infections below 50 per 100,000 inhabitants, the chancellor stressed. "In general, we are still far from this norm," she said. "Meanwhile, there is a high number of deaths - every day."

The situation is "unacceptable"

"We cannot accept this situation," said Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder. "It is important and fair that we postpone the partial restrictions until January 10." Söder even signaled the possibility of even stronger restrictions. Depending on the development of the pandemic, it should be considered whether in certain countries "action should be taken clearly and consistently even in more detail . " Restrictive measures include banning contacts, closing bars, cultural and sports institutions, and restricting travel. .

Italy also extended the curfew from 22:00 - 05:00 until January 7, which will prevent the usual celebrations in the squares on Christmas and New Year's Eve. Hours are extended until 7 a.m. on December 31st and January 1st.

Travel between regions will be banned, while Italians who will spend the holidays abroad must be quarantined when they return. The measure aims to ban ski trips mainly in Switzerland and Austria, as Italian resorts have been locked in until early 2021. Bars, restaurants and shops will remain open according to the curfew.

Buffer or quarantine for anyone entering Austria from abroad starting this week. National quarantine measures will be eased and schools will reopen on Monday. Partial quarantine in Germany is extended until January 10. The Greek Prime Minister is expected to announce by Friday the decision on whether or not to extend the national quarantine, but there are no expected reopening of bars and restaurants.