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Poland's COVID-19 cases rise to 9,856, deaths up to 401: health ministry

21.04.2020 18:12
A total of 9,856 people have tested positive for the COVID-19 disease in Poland, with 401 deaths from the coronavirus so far, officials said on Tuesday afternoon.
Photo:
Photo: PAP/Łukasz Gągulski

The number of new virus cases rose by 263 from the previous day, while the death toll increased by 21, according to public health authorities.

On Monday, the Polish health ministry reported 20 deaths throughout the day and 306 new coronavirus infections nationwide, compared with 13 deaths and a record 545 new cases a day earlier.

The first infection was confirmed by Polish authorities on March 4, while the country's first coronavirus fatality was announced on March 12.

Poland has since declared a "state of epidemic" and temporarily closed its borders to non-residents in a move to curb the spread of the illness.

International scheduled flights and passenger rail connections were suspended on March 15.

In another move to contain the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic, the government has limited the operations of shopping malls and closed all pubs, clubs and entertainment venues.

Public gatherings of more than two people have been banned.

Health and government officials have urged Poles to stay home and practice social distancing.

An initial two-week closure of the country’s schools has been extended until April 26.

People have to wear masks or other face coverings when out in public.

Poland on Monday eased some of its coronavirus lockdown restrictions, allowing more customers into stores and reopening parks and forests.

(pk/gs)

Source: IAR