Coronavirus threat in Andalusia’s Spain raised to level 2 emergency as more casualties ‘inevitable’

Junta de Andalusia’s President, Juan Manuel Moreno, has announced that he has raised threat of Coronavirus to a level two emergency across the region. During a press conference this evening, he reiterated the Prime Minister’s message for the need to ‘respect the restrictions’ imposed by the country’s State of Emergency.

“It’s vital that the public stay at home and limit their movements to prevent further spread of the Coronavirus,” Moreno stated. “We have taken drastic measures to shut down public establishments, schools, shows, museums, bars and restaurants, and all activities. We have also cancelled Semana Santa – which has been an extremely painful decision to make.”

The virus hasn’t shown ‘its true colours’ in Andalusia yet, he said. “However, two more deaths have been announced in Malaga just this evening, taking the total to five in Andalusia just today, and there will be more casualties,” he warned.

“The economy will also suffer, but it will recover,” Moreno added. He confirmed additional resources for the health services, as well as new measures to support both businesses and individuals affected by the Coronavirus and lockdown. Tightened measures also include reduced public services. “For example, public transport will be reduced by 50% and passengers must respect a distance of at least a meter between them and the driver,” he pointed out.

Moreno stressed that everyone must do their part to contain the Coronavirus pandemic: “The responsibility to prevent the spread of the virus falls on everyone – we all have a role in stopping it. Everyone must collaborate and do their part.” He also added that the State may well bring in ‘punitive’ measures for those flouting the restrictions.