Germany will enter a national lockdown until 10th January, as COVID-19 cases continue to rise.

Under the new measures that will come into force on the 16th December, schools and non-essential retailers will be forced to close and bars and restaurants will be closed over the festive period. Hairdressers will also be forced to close.

Five people from two households will be allowed to meet but these restrictions will be relaxed over the Christmas period to allow up to ten people to meet from the 23rd December until 1st January.