Munich tightens COVID-19 restrictions

The Bavarian city of Munich is tightening its coronavirus measures as it faces one of the highest infection rates in Germany.

The city's Mayor, Dieter Reiter, said Monday that starting Thursday only up to five people or members of two households are allowed to meet. No more than 25 people are allowed to attend private indoor gatherings like birthday parties, weddings or funerals. Private events outside can be attended by up to 50 people. Organized events can host 100 people indoors and up to 200 outdoors as there are already hygiene concepts in place.

"We have to drastically reduce the number of people getting together," Reiter said deploring the fact that many people in Munich no longer adhere to social distancing measures that are in place already such as keeping distance when standing in line in front of stores or wearing masks in places where it is already obligatory such as stores or public transportation.

The mayor also said that in crowded public places people have to wear masks at all times.