German Chancellor Angela Merkel has signaled the first doses of an approved vaccine could be ready for use within weeks. Speaking to lawmakers in the German parliament, the Chancellor said distribution plans for the vaccine would focus on prioritizing those most at risk. 

"It is possible that vaccines will arrive before Christmas and we agreed that these vaccines would be offered to those people who work in medical and nursing professions. I believe this corresponds with the risks these people take," she said. 

The announcement comes as regional leaders agreed to extend the country's partial lockdown. 

Germany introduced a circuit-breaker shutdown on November 2 which, was initially meant to last for four weeks. But after a marathon meeting between the Chancellor and her sixteen state premiers on Wednesday, it was decided to extend the measures until at least December 20. 

It means bars, cafes, and restaurants will have to remain closed, except for takeaway service. Theaters, cinemas and gyms are to stay shut entirely, and social-distancing rules are being expanded inside retail stores.

Seeking agreement

Under Germany's decentralised system, Merkel lacks the authority to introduce lockdowns directly. The decision to enforce such measures lies with the country's sixteen state premiers, which means the current rules are essentially held together by sixteen separate pledges from each state. 

Some states have shown resistance to the plans but, faced with a major spike in cases, have fallen in line behind the Chancellor's request for uniform rules to be enforced nationally. 

"Our goal is and remains that all people suffering from COVID-19 or another disease and who require treatment will receive the medical attention they need. Our health system is strong and so far withstood the pandemic and we must ensure it stays that way," Merkel said. 

"Just the day before yesterday saw a sad record number of people who died from or with COVID-19. This is reason for concern," she added. 

Saving Christmas

The government has indicated it hopes to loosen restrictions for families to meet for Christmas. Currently, there is a cap of five people at private gatherings. 

It's expected this could increase to ten to allow people to celebrate the festive holiday together. However, Merkel said the implementation of this plan hinges on infection rates. 

"Should the number of infection cases drop dramatically in the coming weeks - we will evaluate the situation again before Christmas to possibly draw other conclusions," she said. 

"People have a right to expectations but here, unfortunately, we have to say we can't promise to soften restrictions for Christmas and New Year."