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Poland's COVID-19 cases rise to 3,383, deaths up to 71

03.04.2020 23:10
A total of 3,383 people have tested positive for the COVID-19 disease in Poland, with 71 deaths from the coronavirus so far, officials said on Friday evening.
Image: Miroslava ChrienovaPixabay
Image: Miroslava Chrienova/Pixabay Pixabay License

The number of new virus cases rose by a record 437 from the previous day, while the death toll increased by 14, according to public health authorities.

On Thursday, the health ministry reported 14 deaths, the highest daily toll to that point, and 392 new coronavirus infections nationwide, compared with 10 deaths and 243 new cases a day earlier.

The Polish health ministry announced on Friday morning that 2,158 people with suspected coronavirus infection were in hospitals nationwide, with a further 174,997 quarantined, and 44,491 under epidemiological supervision.

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 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. The government has chartered special flights to help Poles abroad return home.

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 Easter.

The government on Tuesday 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. 

(pk/gs)