Virustoename zet Europa weer in lockdown

BY NINIAN CARTER

 Large swathes of Europe are again entering lockdown in a bid to slow an alarming rise in Covid-19 cases, as a second spike takes hold.

Several major European countries enter lockdown this week, with England joining nations like France and Spain as they apply tough new restrictions in an attempt to slow the spread of Covid-19.

During the summer, leaders tried to balance protecting public health with stimulating economic recovery. But in recent weeks the soaring number of European deaths – now more than 270,000 – has forced them to take drastic action once again, fearful that a second winter spike will be far worse than the initial wave in the spring.

However, it could be harder for authorities to police lockdowns this time around as the public mood has changed, with many people tired of restrictions, failing businesses and job losses.