Czech gov't restricts movement of people, Slovakia declares state of emergency over coronavirus

The Czech Republic tightened restrictions on Monday to combat the new coronavirus outbreak, banning people from moving around except for work, shopping and some other limited activities until March 24. The Czech Republic Prime Minister said on Sunday the new measures took effect from midnight and the government urged people to work from home or take holidays if possible.

But public transport would remain running. The country has confirmed 253 cases of the virus but no deaths from it so far. The new restrictions come a day after the government closed most shops and restaurants for at least 10 days. Slovakia declared a state of emergency to contain the coronavirus outbreak. Slovakia Prime Minister said the government's crisis committee would meet on Monday to discuss further measures, including steps to ease the impact of the crisis on the economy. The nation has 61 confirmed coronavirus cases. The country has reported no deaths.