Italy restricts population movement, 233 people died from coronavirus

(Patria) - Italy has formally restricted the movement of more than a quarter of its population in an attempt to stop the spread of the coronavirus, writes The Guardian. More than 5,800 cases of Covid-19 (coronavirus) have been confirmed in Italy, after the number rose by more than 1,200 in 24 hours. 233 people have died. Almost 100 countries are taking various measures due to the epidemic. Among the deceased are mostly people over 80 years old with pre-existing health conditions. 

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte signed a decree on Sunday morning prohibiting entry into the Lombardy region, home to more than 10 million people and where Milan, the financial capital, is located.

Entry and exit are also prohibited from other locations, meaning movement is restricted for nearly 16 million residents.

Venice, Modena, Parma, Piacenza, Reggio Emilia, Rimini, Pesaro and Urbino, Alessandria, Asti, Novara, Verbano Cusio Ossola, Vercelli, Padua, and Treviso are affected.

The decree, which is valid until April 3, mandates fines for anyone caught entering Lombardy or other regions. In addition, public events are prohibited and catering facilities are ordered to close.

Schools will also be closed nationwide until April 3, while major sporting events, such as football's Serie A, will be played "behind closed doors".

Religious ceremonies such as funerals and weddings will also be prohibited.