Italy Rome, Full Mandatory Mask Wearing Implemented

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Chun-hee] As Italy's daily new confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) surpassed 2,000, the Lazio region, including the capital Rome, has made mask-wearing mandatory from the 3rd (local time).

On this day, the Lazio region implemented an administrative order requiring masks to be worn in all public places, including outdoor areas. Residents must wear masks when going out, except for special reasons. The same applies to tourists visiting outdoor historical sites such as the Colosseum and the Foro Romano. Violations will result in a fine of up to 1,000 euros (approximately 1.37 million won).

However, the regional government has set exceptions for children under six years old, cases where wearing a mask is not possible, and during exercise.

Lazio is one of the regions in Italy with the highest number of new confirmed cases recently. Prior to Lazio, the southern Campania region, Basilicata, and the northwestern Liguria region have already enforced mandatory mask-wearing both indoors and outdoors.

As of the 2nd, Italy's daily COVID-19 confirmed cases stood at 2,499, with 23 deaths. This marks the second consecutive day with cases in the 2,000 range. It is the first time in about five months since last April that new confirmed cases in Italy have exceeded 2,000.

By region, Campania reported the highest number of new cases at 392, followed by Lombardy in the north with 307, and Lazio with 264.

The total cumulative confirmed cases in Italy are 319,908, with 35,941 deaths.

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