Strategic easing of restrictive measures by the German government

(Patria) - In an effort to ease emergency measures, the German government has approved the opening of stores such as bookstores, bicycle shops, and car dealerships.

Stores up to 800 m2 have been given the green light to reopen, while the public is obliged to wear protective masks in public places and maintain physical distance.

The German government also plans to open schools from May 4, while larger gatherings will remain prohibited, and religious institutions will be closed until the end of August.

Cafes, restaurants, and cinemas will also remain closed until further notice.

More than 145,000 cases of coronavirus infection have been confirmed in Germany, with more than 4,500 deaths.

Germany is far ahead of other countries in terms of testing its population, and has also started serological testing (antibodies) to determine the extent of the spread of the infection, as well as its general development.

Professor of Microbiology Timo Ulrich explained to the Euronews portal that scientists will closely monitor the epidemic in the context of easing restrictive measures to prevent a wider spread of the infection. 

He said that the goal is to 'keep everything as it is, which means reducing the total number of infected individuals, which allows us to have at least some control over the situation', and added that measures will be eased 'step by step'.

- We must not find ourselves in a situation where we relax restrictions only to reintroduce them to an even greater extent, emphasized Prof. Ulrich.