Coronavirus italy to close all schools as deaths rise
Italy has announced that it will close all schools and universities until March 15 in an effort to contain the spread of the coronavirus, as the number of deaths in the country continues to rise.
The decision was made by the Italian government on Monday, following a meeting with health experts and other officials. The closure will affect around 10 million students and will be in place until at least March 15, when the situation will be reassessed.
Italy has been one of the hardest-hit countries in Europe by the coronavirus, with over 3,000 cases reported and 107 deaths. The country's northern regions, particularly Lombardy and Veneto, have been particularly affected.
The closure of schools and universities is part of a broader effort by the Italian government to contain the spread of the virus. Other measures include:
- Closing all cinemas, theaters, and concert halls
- Limiting public gatherings to no more than 1,000 people
- Suspending all sporting events
- Closing all museums and cultural institutions
- Limiting travel to and from affected areas
The Italian government has also announced that it will provide financial support to affected businesses and individuals, including a package of measures worth around €3 billion.
The closure of schools and universities is a significant step, as it will affect not only students but also teachers and staff. The Italian education minister, Lucia Azzolina, has said that the decision was made to protect the health and safety of students and staff.
The closure of schools and universities is also likely to have a significant impact on the economy, as it will affect not only education but also childcare and other services. The Italian government has said that it will provide support to affected businesses and individuals, but the full extent of the impact is still unclear.
The situation in Italy is being closely monitored by health experts and officials around the world, as it is seen as a key indicator of the spread of the coronavirus in Europe.