The number of people with coronavirus cases in Germany is more than 10 times higher than previously thought, according to a new study.

The findings come from a study conducted by researchers at Bonn University that included 919 people in Gangelt. Among that group, the rate of infection was 15% and the mortality rate was 0.37%.

"Every supposedly healthy person we encounter can unknowingly carry the virus," Martin Exner, study co-author said in a press release. "We must be aware of this and act accordingly."

The researchers predict 1.8 million people in Germany could have contracted coronavirus. So far, Germany has confirmed 165,786 cases in the country.

Roughly one in five people infected with coronavirus do not show symptoms, which underscores the need to practice social distancing.

Germany has the fourth-highest confirmed coronavirus cases in Europe. 

The German government allowed stores smaller than 800 square meters that were considered non-essential to reopen April 20. They are only allowed to have one customer at a time.

Today, churches, museums, and playgrounds were also allowed to reopen.

"Which conclusions can be drawn from the study results depends on many factors that go beyond pure scientific considerations," study co-author Hendrik Streeck wrote. "The evaluation of our findings and their impact on concrete decisions are the responsibility of society and politics."

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