Greece to impose nationwide lockdown over virus

• Greece's prime minister said the restrictions will come into force from 6:00 am local time (0400 GMT) on Monday, and will require citizens to carry proof of identity to leave their homes.

ATHENS: Greece will impose a nationwide lockdown to stem the spread of the coronavirus, limiting people to their homes except for essential outings, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Sunday.

The tough new measures mirror similar restrictions rolled out in other European nations, including hard-hit Italy, Spain and France.

Greece's prime minister said the restrictions will come into force from 6:00 am local time (0400 GMT) on Monday, and will require citizens to carry proof of identity to leave their homes.

"I have given orders that all appropriate action be taken to enforce the ban on all unnecessary movement across the country," Mitsotakis said in a televised address to the nation Sunday.

Outings are only permitted for people "going to work, the doctor, or to visit someone who needs help, or those who are buying food or medication", he added.

Citizens are also permitted to leave the house to walk their pets or exercise outdoors alone or with one other person.

Anyone failing to observe the restrictions will face a fine of 150 euros ($160) and those going out will need to carry a form giving the reason for their trip.

Cars will also be restricted to carrying two people.

"We no longer count time in days but in hours and quick and bold initiatives are needed," Mitsotakis said.

There are 15 recorded deaths and 624 infections from the coronavirus in Greece, which has a population of 11 million.

Since reporting its first death from the virus on March 12, the country has gradually rolled out measures to limit gatherings and non-essential travel along with closing schools, shops and entertainment venues.