Repercussions of the Coronavirus in Italy
According to the WHO (World Health Organization) Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV).
Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. Modern cases of the novel coronavirus that developed within the central Chinese city of Wuhan in late December are being detailed day by day around the world.
With more than 10,000 cases and counting, Italy has the second-highest reported death toll and number of confirmed infected cases, behind only China. Italy’s government has requested all shops, bars and restaurants over the nation to shut after the country’s passing toll from the coronavirus outbreak rose by 31% within the space of 24 hours to add up to of 827.
The Italian Prime Minister, Giuseppe Conte, said all stores would close nationwide bar those selling “basic necessities”, such as pharmacies and supermarkets.
“Industries can stay open, but with strict measures in place, as well as essential services such as banks. Transport will be guaranteed,” Conte said warning Italy’s population of over 60 million not to “rush to the supermarkets” as shelves would be restocked as normal. As this issue grows bigger we need to be aware of the measures we need to adapt in order to be safe and healthy as well as protecting our families from the virus.
By Daniela Yúnez, Step 10
