The Dutch government has said it is considering closing schools a week early for Christmas this year as coronavirus infections remain high and hospitals struggle with a wave of Covid-19 patients, reports Reuters.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte is expected to announce an extension of restrictions that have been in place since November 28 at a news conference today.

These include the closing of all restaurants, bars, non-essential stores and other public places from 5 pm to 5 am, the barring of all spectators at sporting events, and advice to work from home as much as possible.