Despite a very sharp drop in covid-19 cases in a few weeks in Germany, Angela Merkel announced on Wednesday that the restrictions would be maintained, without reopening shops.

Two exceptions, however: that of hairdressers on March 1, and schools on a case-by-case basis from next week, which parents look forward to.

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In Germany, despite a spectacular drop in cases in a few weeks and an incidence of 68, no reopening in sight for shops.

The current measures are extended because of the appearance of mutant viruses, justified the Chancellor.

"As a result, a third wave is going to take place and we already have to fight it. Between now and mid-March, we have a phase where it is vital to lower our incidence, and to remain very cautious."

The Chancellor even lowered the incidence target from 50 to 35 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, and only then will she consider easing.

Two exceptions: hairdressers on March 1 and schools that regions can reopen very gradually on a case-by-case basis from next week.

A difficult situation for the Germans to live with.

"There is no class!"

For families, this is already a prospect because after two months without school, many have thrown in the towel.

This is the case for Tina, who preferred to take her children sledding on Wednesday.

"The online school platform has been inaccessible since this morning. So there are no lessons!"

Officially, digital tools make it possible to follow a course for 6 to 8 hours a day.

The reality is quite different.

At 16-year-old Sarah, there is only one computer for the whole family.

"I do my homework at night. From 11pm or midnight, when everyone is asleep,” she says.

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"Very shocking"

Three quarters of German students have no video contact with their teachers, according to a study.

So like Marie, many parents who have to telecommute at the same time feel abandoned.

"Of course I could spend 12 hours sitting with my son at his desk, and home schooling would be fantastic. But that's not possible because I have a job! The ease with which he was to decide that education and all that that entails, would be taken care of by parents is very shocking to me. "

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To cope, the German government granted them twenty additional days of leave and an allowance of 150 euros per child.