Pope wears mask at public event for first time as European coronavirus cases surge. (Photo: AP)

Vatican City, October 21 (RHC)-- Coronavirus cases continue to surge across the European Union as colder weather drives people indoors and pandemic fatigue sets in.  In Germany, some residents of Bavaria were ordered to shelter at home for two weeks in the nation’s first new lockdowns since April.

Belgium’s health minister is warning hospitals could soon be overrun by what he called a “tsunami” of COVID-19 patients.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis wore a face mask throughout a public service Tuesday — the first time the pontiff has fully complied with Vatican City protocols that went into effect on October 6th.

In Latin America, Brazil’s official COVID-19 death toll is approaching 155,000.  Argentina has now recorded its one millionth coronavirus case, surpassing Spain as the world’s fifth most affected country.