Health

Czech Republic commemorates coronavirus victims

Prague, Mar 22 (efe-epa).- The Czech Republic on Monday observed a minute of silence and a nationwide ringing of bells to commemorate almost 25,000 victims of the coronavirus pandemic in the central European country.

More than 10,000 white crosses were painted on the grounds of Prague’s Old Town Square, which used to be full of tourists but is now empty due to government-imposed restrictions.

The initiative was announced on social media by activist Petr Pospichal as a way to mark the first Covid-19 death in the country a year ago.

It sought to offer a symbolic farewell to those who have died from Covid-19, many of whom were unable to have physical contact with their family members at the end of their lives.

The virus has hit the Czech Republic hard. Since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been nearly 1.5 million confirmed infections and 24,810 deaths.

The nation’s 14-day cumulative incidence rate is more than 1,500 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, much higher than in other European countries.

For the time being, the government does not foresee any easing of the current coronavirus restrictions. All schools and most shops remain closed.EFE-EPA

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