Italy is extending its strict coronavirus quarantine measures, which include a ban on public gatherings, to the entire country.
Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said that people would only be permitted to travel for work or family emergencies.
He said the measures, which come into effect on Tuesday, were to defend the most fragile members of society.
Italy’s coronavirus death toll jumped on Monday by 97 to 463. It is the worst-hit country after China.
Cases of the virus have been confirmed in all 20 Italian regions.
What did Mr Conte say?
In a televised address on Monday, Mr Conte said that Italy’s “customs must change” and that the best thing was for people to stay at home.
“We’re having an important growth in infection… and of deaths,” he said.
“We all must give something up for the good of Italy. We have to do it now, and we’ll only be able if we all collaborate and adapt to these more stringent measures.
“This is why I decided to adopt even more strong and severe measures to contain the advance… and protect the health of all citizens.”
The prime minister added that all sporting events – including football matches – were being suspended nationwide.
What are the restrictions?
Mr Conte described the measures as “I stay home” – with people forbidden to assemble in public.
“No more nightlife; we can’t allow this anymore since they are occasions for contagion,” he said.
The restrictions are similar to those earlier applied to the worst affected Lombardy region, and 14 other provinces.
The government has said only those with a valid work or family reason that cannot be postponed will be permitted to travel.
Passengers departing on flights, except temporary visitors, will have to justify themselves, as will all those arriving by plane.
There are controls at train stations to check temperatures.
Cruise ships are forbidden to dock at various ports.
What is the situation elsewhere?
The number of infections worldwide is now more than 111,000, with about 3,890 deaths.
China, which has recorded the highest number of fatalities, reported just 40 new cases of Covid-19, the lowest since 20 January.
Although this indicates that the spread there is slowing, senior officials warned against reducing vigilance.
In other developments:
- South Korea officials reported the lowest daily increase in two weeks
- Iran confirmed 7,161 infections and 237 deaths, however the real figures are feared to be much higher
- In France, two more lawmakers tested positive, officials said on Sunday
- In the US, the number of confirmed cases exceeds 500
- A cruise ship that was barred by Malaysia and Thailand over coronavirus fears will be allowed to dock in Singapore
Source: BBC
