Due to the coronavirus outbreak in central Madrid in Spain, four towns are under quarantine. Places like Royal Palace are closed to the public and measures have been announced to tackle the economic impact of the coronavirus epidemic. The country’s hoteliers have described it as a ‘tsunami’ which is a threat to the survival of their businesses.
After a significant outbreak in the area the Catalan authorities started lockdown four towns around the village of Igualada which is 49 km or 30 miles north of Barcelona.
From 2300 GMT access to Igualada, Vilanova del Cami, Santa Margarida de Montbui and Odena will be blocked which will be the first restriction imposed in Spain after the outbreak.
This week after the infections soared Spain which initially did little in response to the outbreak changed tack. There was a ban on flights from Italy and warning against domestic and foreign travel.
Across the country, the schools and universities will be closed for a minimum of two weeks. The prison service has cut back visiting rights across its facilities.
The funds will be directed to ventral and regional health authorities and there will be a capping on the prices of drugs and medical equipment.
The tourism sector will be receiving financial support.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced the bulk of the 18 billion euro package will go towards allowing small businesses to make a split or delayed tax payment over the next six months.
Sanchez said that the difficult moments will be overcome with unity and responsibility from all.
On Thursday, Spain’s coronavirus death toll rose to 84 which showed a rise of nearly 80% overnight. Behind Italy, Spain has the second-highest coronavirus tally in Europe.
Ahead of the expected jumps in the infections in Madrid which nearly has 1,400 cases the regional health authority mentioned that it would take control of the private hospital and convert some hotels into medical centers.
CEHAT, a top officials hotel federation sad that there are no new bookings due to the coronavirus epidemic and the hotels occupancy have fallen dramatically.
