RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – With 56 confirmed infections, Argentina has decided to close its borders, suspend classes and restrict public transport, announced the country’s President Alberto Fernández on Sunday, March 15th. The measures are initially valid for 15 days.
“We must do everything possible so that the virus does not spread among us. It is important to gain time because we can manage the health issue,” said Fernández at a press conference, adding that cultural shows will not be allowed during the period either.
However, the President said the borders will remain open to Argentines or people who live in the country. Fernández added that he will seek ways to restrict public transport in the Buenos Aires metropolitan area – 70 percent of infections are expected to occur in public transportation.
It was also announced that those over 65 will be relieved from work because they are considered a risk group. The President further said he would consider closing shopping malls and supermarkets in the near future.
Four days ago, Fernández ordered that all Argentinians or residents coming from the so-called “risk countries” of the new coronavirus be quarantined at home for a period of 14 days.
“This is not voluntary, it is not a recommendation, if the determination is not complied with, whoever fails to comply will be committing a crime, by endangering public health,” he said at the time.
The countries considered at risk are China, South Korea, Japan, Iran, Italy, Spain, France and Germany. The penalty for those who fail to comply with the quarantine will be three to 15 years imprisonment, according to Article 202 of the Constitution, which establishes “crimes against public health”.