In a sudden turnabout, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, announced on Wednesday that the country will not go into a strict lockdown over Easter in order to try and break a third Covid-19 wave. After a backlash from the weary public, the Chancellor withdrew the measure.

 

A new lockdown would have meant that all stores, including food and essentials, would be closed for an extra day on 1 April. Addressing the leaders of the 16 states, Merkel conceded her error of judgement. “This mistake is mine alone,” she said. “I ask all citizens for forgiveness.”

 

The leaders have urged all citizens to stay at home during the Easter period in a bid to stem more infections and deaths. Germany reported 15 813 infections on Wednesday; so far, the death toll has risen to 75 212. The slow rollout of vaccination and extended lockdown measures have led to public outcries and frustration, in view of rising infections. 


In response to the announcement, the business lobby and the HDE association of retailers praised her, stating that the closure of stores before Easter would have caused logistical challenges. Merkel reassured Germans that they will beast the virus together, despite mistakes and setbacks and the virus would become less scary over time. 


Source: Reuters

image credit: www.thelocal.de

«« World Health Day 2021: Fairer, Healthier World


Teach Me, Train Me, Help my Patient: Using e-Learning in Radiotherapy »»



Latest Articles

Infections, Germany, deaths, COVID-19, lockdown, COVID-19 vaccine, merkel In a sudden turnabout, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, announced on Wednesday that the country will not go into a strict lockdown over Easter in order to...