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Germany passed a grim coronavirus milestone Friday (November 27) with infections surpassing one million, according to data from the Robert Koch Institute.

The figures show that Germany was at best keeping new infections stable, which Chancellor Angela Merkel has said would not suffice to ease restrictions and eliminate the risk of overwhelming hospitals.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases increased by over 22,800 - however, that was around 840 fewer new cases than a week ago.

The reported death toll rose by 426 to 15,586 - a daily record.

That number was at 260 a week ago, and at just 49 on November 2, the day the "lockdown lite" was launched.

Bars, restaurants, theatres and fitness studios are closed but schools and shops remain open.

From Dec. 1, private gatherings will be slashed to five people from 10.

Over Christmas, that number will rise to 10 again across most of the country, although families are being urged to avoid social contact for a week ahead of visits.

Berlin, one of the hardest hit cities in Germany, has said it would not ease restrictions over Christmas.

On Thursday, Merkel said the country will probably have to stick with measures well into January, while her chief of staff suggested that restrictions might be needed until March