Spain, COVID-19 Surge... 5,000 New Cases in One Day

China, Italy Followed by
3rd Highest Number of Confirmed Cases
About One-Third Infected in Madrid

[Asia Economy Reporter Cha Min-young] In Spain, the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is spreading uncontrollably fast, with the number of confirmed cases reaching 5,000 in a single day.

According to the AP news agency on the 21st (local time), Spanish health authorities announced that the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases reached 24,926 as of that day. This is an increase of 4,946 cases compared to the previous day (19,980 cases). With this, Spain has become one of the countries with the highest number of confirmed cases, following China and Italy.

The number of COVID-19 deaths in Spain rose to 1,326, an increase of 324 from the previous day (1,002). Among the confirmed cases, 1,612 patients are receiving intensive care, so the death toll is expected to continue rising.

In particular, the spread of infection was steep in the capital, Madrid. In Madrid, about one-third of the total cases, 8,921, were confirmed. The number of deaths in Madrid increased to 804.

Isabel D?az Ayuso, the Governor of Madrid, warned in an interview with a local radio station on the 19th (local time) that "COVID-19 will virtually spread to everyone," and that up to 80% of Madrid residents could be infected, according to a report by CNN.

However, Governor Ayuso stated, "In most cases, symptoms will be mild," and added, "The problem lies with the vulnerable group, which accounts for 15% of the total population of Madrid."

Meanwhile, the Spanish government declared a national state of emergency on the 14th and has requested all citizens to stay at home except for purchasing essential goods and medicines or commuting to work. However, the spread of COVID-19 continues. Health authorities also expect that it will be difficult to slow the increase in confirmed cases until the government measures take effect.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.