South Cyprus announces partial lockdown for 3 weeks over Coronavirus

Greek Cypriot President, Nicos Anastasiades on Monday announced a 3 weeks partial lockdown in the country that includes restrictions in movement and the closures of public places, to stop the spread of coronavirus in the country. 

As at the time of the announcement on Monday, southern Cyprus has recorded a total of 116 cases.

An out-of-control spread of the cases will lead to the collapse of the health system, which cannot respond to the needs that will be created irrespective of how good its structure is, I cannot conceive that we can be led to the scenes seen in Italy and Spain where doctors are forced to select who lives and who will be left to die, Anastasiades said during a televised address on Monday evening.

Anastasiades noted that despite previous measures, the sacrifice of thousands of workers, the pain felt by parents and children who remained abroad, a section of the public displayed a lack of discipline, self-respect, responsibility and solidarity with their fellow humans.

Behaviours that expose the entire population to mortal danger, he said, referring to the scenes of crowded parks on Sunday despite the government’s plea for people to stay at home.

As part of the new measures, the government banned unnecessary movement from 6pm on Tuesday until April 13, unless it concerned work, the purchase of supplies, doctor and pharmacy visits, or going to a bank if an online transaction is impossible.

Also exempted are people who provide assistance to vulnerable groups and first-degree relatives attending funerals, weddings, or baptisms, provided they do not exceed 10 people.

Exercising and walking a dog are also allowed as long as they do not exceed two people and they are restricted to the area around their residences.

Everyone outside must carry their ID or passport and additional proof regarding their business. Starting Tuesday 6pm and until April 13, the government will shut parks, play areas, open sports facilities, public meeting places – including squares, reservoirs, picnic areas, beaches, marinas, open markets and bazaars.

Visits to churches, mosques, and other religious venues were also banned. All retailers will suspend operation apart from those included in a health ministry order.

The closure order includes construction sites apart from those relating to public utilities.

Violators will be fined 150 Euros.

Source: Cyprus Mail