Slovenia 'locks down' cities

(Patria) - Slovenia has tightened travel restrictions and introduced mandatory protective equipment in order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

Slovenians from midnight cannot leave their cities, and will also be obliged to wear gloves and protective masks when going to grocery stores and other open shops.

"The hardest part of the fight against the coronavirus is ahead of us," said Prime Minister Janez Janša in a televised address.

From Monday, March 30, disinfection of corridors and staircases of residential buildings twice a day is also mandatory.

The decision to restrict travel was made after thousands of Slovenians went to the coast this weekend, ignoring authorities' warnings to stay at home.

In Slovenia, 730 cases of coronavirus infection and eleven deaths have been confirmed as of Sunday.