Picture used for illustrative purpose. File

Gulf Today Report 

Pupils in Germany head back to schools and kindergartens on Monday after being home for two months, despite the surge in cases.

Schools and daycare centres reopened in 10 German regions, including the capital Berlin and the most populous state North-Rhine Westphalia.

Most schools have capped the number of children returning, allowing pupils in primary classes one to three. In addition to that, the size of classes would be halved alongside mask-wearing and airing out rooms.

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In discussions with party colleagues on Monday, Chancellor Angela Merkel reportedly mooted plans for a step-by-step relaxation of measures in areas such as social contact, schools and restaurants and culture.

However, critics think opening schools is not a good idea. Experts also warn that Germany could be at the start of a third coronavirus wave as cases surge.

On Monday, the nationwide seven-day incidence rate returned to 61 cases per 100,000 people after sinking to almost 50 in the past weeks.