Germany is to impose new restrictions for unvaccinated people, outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel has said.
Anyone who hasn't been vaccinated will now be banned from non-essential shops, bars and other recreational venues.
They will still be able to access grocery stores and pharmacies.
Local media reports that only vaccinated or recently recovered people will be able to enter the likes of restaurants, museums and cinemas.
A general vaccine mandate will also be considered by parliament and, if agreed, would come into force from February 2022.
Ms Merkel's announcement comes as Germany battles a fourth wave of COVID-19 infections, with tens of thousands of new cases being reported daily.
The acting Chancellor said the current situation is "very serious" and there was a risk of hospitals becoming overwhelmed.
Around 68% of Germans are fully vaccinated, compared to over 76% in Ireland (with vaccines yet to be rolled out to younger children in either country).
Neighbouring Austria previously became the first EU country to announce plans for mandatory vaccination.
