OREANDA-NEWS. All stores, with the exception of grocery stores and pharmacies, are closing in Italy due to the risk of the spread of coronavirus. This was announced on Wednesday by Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte.

"I really appreciate your efforts. But the time has come to take the next step. We close all commercial activities, points of sale, with the exception of grocery stores and pharmacies", Conte announced. He announced the closure of all restaurants and bars across the country. Home delivery available. At the same time, public transport services and a number of basic services remain guaranteed, including the work of banks and insurance companies.

"Factories remain open with all precautions. The activities of the agricultural industry are guaranteed", the prime minister added. He called on employers to send employees on vacations and organize remote work, as well as close departments of companies in which there is no critical need.

“You don’t have to wait immediately for the decline in the number of infections, even if they continue, don’t despair, your efforts will surely lead to a result, you only need a little time”, Conte said.