Portugal imposes lockdown after record virus surge

Portugal's government ordered a national lockdown on Wednesday. Portugal has witnessed a record-breaking surge in COVID-19 cases since it eased restrictions for the Christmas holiday. Prime Minister said the pandemic was at its most dangerous point and said the lockdown would likely last at least a month. From Friday, staying at home will be mandatory, including for work, and fines for not complying with rules such as wearing masks in the street will be doubled, Prime Minister said.

Only companies providing essential services can stay open, and financial help will be provided for businesses that have to close, such as restaurants, cinemas and hair salons. Schools are to remain open. The country's health authorities reported 10,556 new cases and 156 deaths over the previous 24 hours on Wednesday. Health experts predict the country will reach a peak of new daily cases in a week's time. Portugal, which began a vaccination program in the last week of December, has officially recorded more than 8,200 deaths from the new coronavirus.