The German government has barred public gatherings of more than two
people, except for families, to help prevent the spread of the
coronavirus outbreak.
Speaking after meeting the leaders of Germany’s regions on Sunday
afternoon, Chancellor Angela Merkel made it clear that the new
restrictions are not desirable but necessary. “None of us wished that we
would ever have to face the people with such rules,” she said.
Merkel who also revealed that she was going into isolation because
her doctor had tested positive for the coronavirus warned of
consequences if people violate the new measures, but did not specify
what that would entail. “These are not recommendations, but rules,” she
said.
The new regulation says: “Spending time in public space is only
permitted on your own, with another person who does not live in the
household or with members of your own household.” When in public, people
should stand at least 1.5 meters apart, Merkel said.
The rule will be in place for at least two weeks.
In Germany, the number of confirmed cases had risen to more than 23,900 by Sunday, with more than 90 deaths.