"As long as incidence rates in most of Germany exceed 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, we do not control the pandemic ... Therefore, unfortunately, the measures cannot be canceled; it is possible that restrictions will remain in force in the first months of 2021", Altmaier said.
Earlier this week, Germany, which has registered nearly 1 million COVID-19 cases so far, prolonged the coronavirus-linked restrictions until 20 December. Meanwhile, the limitations of social contacts and restrictions for restaurants and hotels are likely to be in place until January.
Germany introduced the so-called quarantine light in early November. Under the restrictions, the authorities have limited entertainment events and closed theaters, cinemas, concert halls, operas, and amusement parks. All restaurants, bars and night clubs were also closed, while food delivery services still can operate.