German 7-day incidence figure hits pandemic record high

Germany has posted a record high seven-day incidence figure of 201.1 confirmed coronavirus cases per 100,000 inhabitants, the official Robert Koch Institute (RKI) said early Monday, reported dpa.

This was the highest figure for the seven-day incidence since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Monday's figure was up from 154.5 on Thursday and 130.2 a week earlier.

The previous record figure was a seven-day incidence of 197.6 posted on December 22, 2020 at the height of the second wave of the pandemic.

Experts have said it is important to consider that, unlike a year ago, many people in Germany are now vaccinated, and said that the incidence figure is particularly high amongst very old people who have a very high Covid-19 risk.

Experts therefore believe that the country's health system should be able to handle a larger number of new infections than before vaccinations started, as the jabs offer very good protection severe illness.

German health officials and lawmakers are facing an intensifying debate about an impending fourth wave and possible renewed restrictions.

Chancellor Angela Merkel's caretaker cabinet faces a dilemma.

The outgoing ministers have expressed reluctance to embark on radical policy-making while coalition talks to form a new government after September elections are underway. The negotiations have shown little sign of being close to a conclusion.