New Delhi (NVI): Four Italian regions have been put under “red-zone” lockdown, with severe limits imposed on the circumstances under which people can leave home.
The stringent restrictions begin from today for Lombardy, Piedmont and Valle d’Aosta in the north, and for Calabria, which forms the southern toe of the Italian peninsula.
Lasting at least two weeks, it will involve some 16.5 million of Italy’s 60 million residents and include the country’s financial capital, Milan.
The lockdown is aimed at tamping down a surge in COVID-19 infections and preventing hospitals from being overwhelmed with cases.
Barring very few exceptions, no one will be able to leave or enter the “red zone” regions. People must stay home, except to go to work or shop for essentials. They can also exercise near their homes and while wearing masks.
After days of consultations with regional governors, Health Minister Roberto Speranza decided which regions received the “red-zone” designation.
-CHK
