Which countries imposed lockdown?

Four European Union member states have imposed lockdowns to combat the spread of the potentially deadly COVID-19 virus while travellers hoping to get into the bloc are being turned away.

Belgium became the latest EU country to introduce a lockdown on Wednesday, joining France, Italy and Spain.

Belgium‘s nationwide self-isolation policy is to run until April 5, longer than the 15-day lockdown currently imposed in France and Spain. Residents must stay at home unless they need to go to work, supermarkets, health facilities or visit people in need. They are also allowed to step out for physical activity.

The lockdown in France is similar to the one in Belgium, except physical activity is to be done alone.  French citizens are being asked to justify their movements with a form they must present to authorities. Failure to do so or if they’re deemed further away from home than strictly necessary can result in a fine of €135

Italy was the first EU member state to introduce lockdowns. Northern regions were the first to be concerned by confinement measures which were extended across the country last week. More than 43,000 people have so far been found to have violated containment measures, according to figures released on Wednesday by the ministry of interior.

The Republic of Ireland is expected to introduce emergency legislation on Thursday to allow for a state of emergency and lockdowns.

British parliamentarians are also poised to approve emergency legislation that could pave the way for a lockdown.

Germany has so far eschewed a lockdown but called on citizens to voluntarily restrict their movements warning that curfews could otherwise be imposed.

Via Euronews