The Greek government will move even further and prohibit all unnecessary transport and movement of people

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The Greek government has responded immediately and decisively to the threat posed to public health by COVID-19. It has mobilized the state’s resources to raise awareness and employ preventive and deterrent measures in order to stem the spread of infection across the country and its population.

In partnership with the private sector, as well as civic groups, Greek citizens have headed the government’s warnings and overall have acted responsibly, a Greek government source.

Ahead of most governments in Europe, Greece implemented measures such as the closing of schools (announced March 10), nightclubs, gyms, cinemas and theaters (announced March 12) and on March 13 the government announced the closure of all shopping malls, cafes, restaurants, and bars.

As of Sunday, March 22, 2020, Greece had 624 confirmed cases of COVID-19 infections, with 100 persons hospitalized and 15 fatalities.

As of 6 am Monday, March 23rd 2020, the Greek government will move even further and prohibit all unnecessary transport and movement of people. In a televised statement aired on Sunday, March 22nd, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis noted that this step “must be taken on time, so it is not taken in vain,” adding that “we need bold and timely initiatives.”

The Prime Minister, in his address, thanked the Greek people that have stayed at home in order to stave off the threat. “But I will not allow a frivolous few,” he added, “to undermine the safety of most.” As such, citizens will be able to move freely to and from their work, to purchase food or medicine, to visit a doctor or a person that requires care. The purpose of every movement to and from work must be documented from one’s employer or personal affirmation. For all other movement, confirmation of movement will be executed in a user-friendly manner via the Internet or mobile messaging.

“Staying at home, is essentially the most profound demonstration of our collective duty,” concluded Mr. Mitsotakis. “It is how we will prove that our social web has a conscience and is solid. And, that by staying together, even if we have to be apart, we shall overcome this crisis.”

Active gov.gr portal to further reduce visits to state services, provide digital signing options