La Czech Republic began taking strict measures a few days ago against the pandemic closing schools, universities, theatres and museums. The Czech government is taking another step towards locking down the country by declaring thestate of emergency. At midnight on the night of 12 to 13 March , the Czech Republic closed its borders to all nationals of France Italy, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, Belgium, Great Britain and Denmark who do not have permanent residence in the country. The measure also applies to foreigners from outside the EU," said the Prime Minister. Andrej Babis after a crisis meeting on Thursday.
The country is experiencing a veritable infection psychosis, with 96 cases tested positive for the virus to date. Since the beginning of the week, random checks had already been carried out at ten border crossings with the European Union. Germany and AustriaPassengers with high temperatures were asked to turn back. Tens of thousands of vehicles were inspected. Public transport trains and bus services will be suspended from Thursday evening, and air traffic will be reduced to a few daily flights from Saturday.
The head of government also announced a ban on events and meetings for more than 30 people and the closure of all restaurants between 8pm and 6am.
At the same time Slovakia has also been quarantined. The government of Prime Minister Peter Pellegrini announced that airports will be closed while international bus and trains in the country will be suspended, following the example of its Czech neighbour. The country will also close schools, universities, shopping centres, museums and entertainment venues. As in Italy, only food shops and pharmacies will remain open. The measure takes effect tomorrow morning.
Foreign visitors who are not resident in Slovakia will no longer be allowed to enter the country, while Slovaks who have spent time outside the country will have to go to the quarantine for 14 days. These measures are activated for at least two weeks. Slovakia has 16 contaminations this Thursday.
