The data show that the number of infections is increasing, Chief Medical Officer Cecília Müller said at the Coronavirus Operational Group’s press conference today. Some of those infected are in good health, but many have been hospitalized, she said, adding that eleven people have died in the past 24 hours, typically elderly patients with chronic underlying conditions.
“The situation justifies not relaxing current rules,” Müller emphasized.
“The number of deaths is rising; they are typically elderly people. We can say for sure that the virus is especially dangerous for the elderly,” the chief medical officer said.
Müller also visited the home for the elderly in Pest to assess the situation there. A total of 151 people at the home have tested positive for the virus, and seven have died. As a precaution, 126 were taken to Korányi Hospital for treatment, as older people can experience rapid deterioration.
Due to the nature of this emergency, Müller assigned specialized training to the entire staff at the elderly home, including preventive actions to take and the use of disinfectants, which was not being properly followed. Personal protective equipment was also provided.
Meanwhile, the chief medical officer has ordered inspections of nursing homes across the country. If any deficiency is found, immediate action will be taken.
Colonel Tibor Lakatos, head of the Operational Group, spoke about the extension of the movement restrictions; the current rules are still in force, and people can only leave their homes for good reason. The government will review the extension each week based on a report from the Operational Group. Until 1 p.m. on April 13, mayors may also impose stricter rules if they deem necessary. It is up to the municipalities to decide whether to keep the markets open, but a time during which only those over 65 can shop must be provided.
Violators of the rules will continue to be punished, Colonel Lakatos noted, adding that in the last 24 hours, 1,255 measures have been taken against offenders, although the police used only a warning in 655 cases.
Tobacco shops can now only be open until 3 p.m. under the new government decree, as the recent period showed that these have become locations where many people gather.
Photo credit: HírTV