Coronavirus in Italy: Hospitals and crematoria at the limit
In Italy, more people have died from the coronavirus than in China or any other country. The total number of victims in Italy increased by 427 in one day and reached 3405. In China, where the virus first appeared, officials say 3245 people have died, although experts question the reliability of Chinese data.
Meanwhile, European countries are considering the possibility of extending quarantine measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. In Italy, the mandatory 14-day quarantine began on March 12, but authorities decided to extend it beyond March 25. Almost all Italians have been told to stay home. France has also announced the possibility of extending the 15-day quarantine. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday that the epidemic could decline by the end of June, but there are no guarantees.
European leaders are not yet saying when anti-crisis measures will be weakened. The EU has introduced strict border controls. Travelers from countries outside the Union will not be allowed to cross the border and will be turned back. 27 EU countries have decided to ban entry for 30 days. Spain announced on Thursday that the number of deaths due to coronavirus infection increased by 169 in the last 24 hours (total of 767 deaths). The number of people infected has increased by 3431 (total of 17147 cases).
Italy has the highest rate of COVID-19 infection in Europe. German Chancellor Angela Merkel made a televised address to the nation yesterday. “The situation is serious. Take it seriously. Since reunification, and even since World War II, our country has not faced such a challenge, the outcome of which depends on our collective solidarity,” she said. In Germany, the measures to combat the spread of the coronavirus are not as strict as in Spain and Italy. The authorities have ordered schools to close, and many businesses and public facilities are not operating. Residents of the country can meet and spend time together, but according to German media, Merkel’s statement appeared to be the last warning before a possible imposition of a mandatory quarantine. On Thursday, Germany reported that the number of coronavirus infections had risen to 10,999.
In Spain, the quarantine period is five days.