Italy shuts schools as coronavirus deaths soar
Italy has taken drastic measures to combat the spread of the coronavirus, shutting down all schools and universities across the country until March 15th. This decision comes as the country struggles to contain the outbreak, with the number of deaths and cases continuing to rise.
As of March 4th, Italy has reported over 3,000 cases of COVID-19, with 107 deaths. The majority of the cases and deaths have been reported in the northern regions of Lombardy, Veneto, and Piedmont.
The decision to shut down schools and universities was made by the Italian government in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. The move is expected to affect over 10 million students and 1.5 million teachers.
In addition to shutting down schools, the Italian government has also implemented other measures to combat the outbreak, including:
- Closing all cinemas, theaters, and concert halls
- Limiting public gatherings to 1,000 people or less
- Suspending all sporting events
- Closing all museums and cultural institutions
- Limiting travel to and from the affected regions
The Italian government has also activated the country's emergency response plan, which allows for the deployment of military personnel to assist with the response efforts.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has praised Italy's efforts to combat the outbreak, saying that the country's swift and decisive action is helping to slow the spread of the virus.
However, the situation in Italy remains serious, and the country's health system is under significant pressure. The Italian government has appealed for international assistance, including medical supplies and personnel, to help combat the outbreak.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is clear that Italy is taking a proactive and decisive approach to combat the spread of the coronavirus. The country's actions serve as a reminder of the importance of global cooperation and preparedness in the face of public health crises.