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Poland's COVID-19 cases rise to 7,918, deaths up to 314: health ministry

16.04.2020 18:44
A total of 7,918 people have tested positive for the COVID-19 disease in Poland, with 314 deaths from the coronavirus so far, officials said on Thursday afternoon.
Image by Klaus Hausmann from Pixabay
Image by Klaus Hausmann from Pixabay Pixabay License

The number of new virus cases rose by 336 from the previous day, while the death toll increased by 28, according to public health authorities.

On Wednesday, the Polish health ministry reported 23 deaths throughout the day and 380 new coronavirus infections nationwide, compared with 18 deaths and 270 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.

The government at the end of last month announced tough new restrictions on daily life, banning children under 18 from leaving home unless supervised by an adult, closing parks and beaches, and ordering most hotels to shut. 

Poland’s prime minister last week said that a swathe of restrictions were being extended as the country battles the outbreak.

Poles now have to wear face masks or scarves covering their nose and mouth when out in public.

(pk/gs)

Source: PAP