Greece’s Civil Protection imposed restrictive measures in the regional unit of Xanthi, north-eastern Greece, on Thursday, after 15 new confirmed coronavirus cases have been detected in the last 24 hours.
According to a statement issued by the Civil Protection, the measures have been imposed “taking into account the increased epidemiological burden” and to “address address a serious risk to public health and in particular to reduce the spread and effects of COVID-19.”
The measures imposed in the wider area of Xanthi are:
- Citizens can visit Public and Utility Services and Municipality offices only by appointment
- Mandatory use of a mask in all private businesses and stores
- Suspension of open markets and outdoor trade in general
Specifically for the community of Echinos of the Municipality of Mykis:
- · Prohibition of public and private gatherings except within a family
- · Prohibition of traffic of citizens every day from 21:00 to 07:00 the next day
- · Prohibition of transit workers inside and outside Echinos
- · Mandatory use of a mask and general protective measures by all citizens living in the area
- · The supply of commercial stores will be done with the obligatory use of a mask
- · Suspension of operation of kindergartens and primary schools
Minimum necessary activity for farmers and stockbreeders of Echinos in the context of agricultural and livestock activities are allowed.
Moreover, the state will strengthen the Health Center of Echinos, with medical and nursing staff.
Authorities have already closed several schools and court rooms and placed 80 teachers in house isolation in the broader area of Xanthi on Wednesday, after two teachers and one lawyer were tested positive.
The measures go into effect at 6 am on June 12 and for seven days, June 19. Evaluation of the situation will decide whether the measures will be extended or lifted, the Civil Protection statement said.
The fifteen new cases in Xanthi are among the total of 20 new confirmed coronavirus cases announced by the Greek health authorities on Thursday evening. The total number of infections stands at 3,088.
55% of the total infected are men.
Of the total cases, 692 are people infected during travel abroad and 1,752 were infected by already known cases.
The number of intubated patients rose to 14 from 12 in the last 24 hours. Their average age is 75, among them are six women. 78.6% of them have underlying health issues or are over 70 years old.
A total of 115 patients have been discharged from intensive care units.
No new fatalities have been registered since Tuesday and the death toll stands at 183.
Among the deceased were 56 women. Average age 76.
95.6% of the deceased had underlying health problem and/or were over 70 years old.
Health experts are warning of an increase of coronavirus infections in the next two weeks due to relaxation of protective measures, “imported” cases and crowding phenomena mostly in bars.
