Number of COVID-19 Deaths Rises by 31% in One Day

The Italian government has ordered all stores, bars, and restaurants to close across the country as the number of COVID-19 deaths rose by 31% in the past 24 hours, reaching 827. This was announced by Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte.

“I greatly appreciate your efforts, but it is time to take the next step. We are halting all commercial activities, closing sales points, except for grocery stores and pharmacies,” Conte declared.

Only banks, post offices, and insurance and financial companies will remain operational. Public transportation will also continue to function.

“We all need to sacrifice something for the welfare of Italy, and we must do this right now. That is why I decided to take more decisive and stringent measures,” the Prime Minister added, emphasizing that Italy will be “locked down” from all sides.