Greece under lockdown: Empty streets, police checks and COVID deaths at record high

·

After a spike in COVID-19 cases, Greece entered a second nationwide lockdown in the early morning hours of Saturday.

Greeks lined up outside of shops on Friday to buy essentials before the lockdown but now, the once-bustling streets are notably empty. Few people can be seen walking their dogs or going out for exercise.

The lockdown, which will last until November 30, resembles the initial lockdown in Greece in spring.

Movement will be limited to essentials, all retails stores have closed and travel between regions is banned.

This is the second nationwide lockdown for Greece in as many months. Photo: The Greek Herald.

Secondary schools have closed, switching to distance learning. Kindergartens and primary schools remain open.

READ MORE: Greece to enter second nationwide lockdown.

Authorities have also reintroduced a system obliging citizens to send text messages to a government number to leave home to work, shop, visit a doctor or take exercise.

Police have been stationed around the country to ensure citizens are observing the anti-virus measures.

For those who don’t, they can expect a fine of 300 euros. Employers who provide false movement permits for employees will also be fined 500 euros, while companies that operate in violation of the new measures and the lockdown face fines of between 3,000 and 5,000 euros.

Record 35 deaths from COVID-19 announced:

The lockdown comes just as Greek health authorities announced a staggering 1,914 new cases of the coronavirus, including a record 35 deaths, on Sunday.

Of the country’s 1,063 intensive care units, 734 are occupied, 259 with coronavirus patients.

The total number of confirmed cases in Greece since the start of the pandemic is 56,698, with 734 deaths.

The death toll from coronavirus has spiked in Greece. Photo: ekathimerini.

Researchers at the chemistry department of the University of Athens have also analysed waste in Athens and estimate that 1.5 to 2 percent of the capital’s 4.2 million population are active coronavirus carriers, which would mean 63,000 to 84,000 individuals.

Disinfectant crews hit town:

The Athens municipal authority has launched a daily mass disinfection program in public spaces in the city center and its neighborhoods.

The cleaning and disinfection operation targets busy public ares like squares, sidewalks, metro and ISAP train stations, police stations and churches, as well as areas around hospitals, pharmacies, supermarkets and bakeries.

According to an announcement by the municipality, about 200 employees with the assistance of 80 vehicles are “working feverishly, day and night, actively participating in the effort to contain the coronavirus pandemic and protect public health as much as possible.” 

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Greece and Australia among world’s most powerful passports as US drops out of top 10

Greece and Australia have both secured top spots in the latest Henley Passport Index, which ranks global passports.

IMF projects steady debt decline and budget surpluses for Greece through 2030

Greece is on track to maintain primary budget surpluses and continue reducing its public debt through the end of the decade.

Hamas hands over two more hostage bodies as Israel presses for full return

The Red Cross has received the bodies of two additional hostages from Hamas, bringing the total number of remains returned to nine out of 28.

Sydney shines as Greek Film Festival celebrates 30 years of cinema and culture

The 30th Greek Film Festival of Sydney opened in spectacular fashion on Tuesday night with Kapetan Mihalis.

Celebrate the 113th anniversary of Lesvos’ liberation at Mytilenian House in Sydney

The Mytilenian Brotherhood of Sydney and NSW is set to celebrate the 113th Anniversary of the Liberation of the Island of Lesvos.

You May Also Like

Mark Philippoussis dumped again by tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas

Greek star Stefanos Tsitsipas has dumped Greek Australian tennis star Mark Philippoussis for a second time.

Greek swimmers leave their mark on Melbourne swimming championship

Greece's Andreas Vazeos finished in sixth place in the World Swimming Championships in Melbourne, Australia.

Beyond the grill: Halloumi Festival’s message of celebration and resilience

Melbourne's annual Halloumi Festival at the Cypriot Community Hall on Saturday and Sunday wasn't just a celebration of grilled cheese.