Germany's coronavirus situation is dramatic, Chancellor Angela Merkel says, calling for a push to distribute booster shots faster and appealing to those sceptical of vaccination to change their minds.

Germany has reported 52,826 new infections — a jump of a third compared with a week ago and another daily record, while 294 people have died, bringing the total to 98,274, as the pandemic's fourth wave tightens its grip on Europe.

"It is not too late to opt for a first vaccine shot," Merkel told a congress of German city mayors. "Everyone who gets vaccinated protects himself and others. And if enough people get vaccinated that is the way out of the pandemic."

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