Greece hunkers down to limit spread of COVID-19

With all of neighbouring Italy having been confined to their homes the Greek government took the drastic move of shutting down all schools and universities nationwide.

The measure was announced by Health Minister Vasilis Kikilias and signals that the state is prepared to take radical measures to curb the spread of the potentially deadly coronavirus.

The measure (which will initially be in effect for two weeks) covers all schools and universities - public and private - nationwide from daycare centres to universities.

Kikilias said this is a preventive measure designed to limit the spread of the virus to the community.

The minister said the state wants to support working parents and businesses harmed by the measure.

He said parents must limit the movement of their children to limit the spread and stressed personal responsibility.
"It is the moment when we Greeks must exhibit responsibility," he declared.

89 COVID-19 cases

The ministry announced on 10 March five more confirmed cases, four of which had come into close contact with individuals who had already been registered as COVID-19 virus cases. Another is a traveler from London, who brings the total number to 89 cases in Greece.

Competent health authorities are also seeking the first transmitter in four undetermined cases in Attica involving individuals who are over 60 that are not linked with other cases in Greece.

The cases were identified after the change in the definition of "case" which is changing often.

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