HEALTH
Italy locks down millions as its coronavirus deaths jump
March 9, 2020 - All of Lombardy, including the financial capital Milan, and 14 other provinces, covering a quarter of Italy’s population, have been shut down in a drastic attempt to contain the spread of coronavirus.
Italy's government has pledged to further increase spending in a "massive shock therapy" to offset the economic impact of the outbreak.
With more than 360 deaths now confirmed, Italy is the worst-hit country in the world after China.
Quarantine measures in place until April 3 include the closing of museums, theatres, cinemas, gyms, cultural
centres, ski resorts and swimming pools.
Entry and exit from quarantined areas are prohibited, except for proven work-related matters, emergencies or health reasons.
Restaurants and bars are allowed to open from 6:00am to 6:00pm but customers must remain at least one metre apart.
Church services, including funerals and weddings, are suspended. Pope Francis will deliver prayers via live-streaming from inside the Vatican.
The number of infections worldwide is now more than 107,000, with about 3,600 deaths.