From April 29, Turkey enters the general lockdown until May 17. The announcement was made by President Erdogan. The move is being taken in desperation to stop the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Recep Tayyip Erdogan said all companies will suspend their activities during the restrictions, except those in the Interior Ministry.
"Twe need to quickly reduce the number of cases to less than 5.000, otherwise we will face serious consequences in all areas, from tourism to trade and education"President Erdogan was also quoted as saying by Anadolu Agency.
All long-distance travel will be subject to permission, while public transport will operate at 50% capacity, he added. Erdogan said that physical education, including in kindergartens and nurseries, will be suspended and all exams will be postponed.
The Turkish Ministry of Health has confirmed 37.312 new cases of COVID-19, including 2.716 symptomatic patients, in the last 24 hours. Total cases of COVID-19 exceeded 4,6 million, including 38.711 associated deaths, with 353 deaths on the last day. Of these, 4.1 million were cured, with 48.027 patients declared cured in the last 24 hours.
On January 14, Turkey launched a massive COVID-19 vaccination campaign, starting with health workers, senior officials, to encourage public confidence in vaccines. To date, it has administered over 21,52 million doses. More than 13,33 million people received the first dose, while 8,18 million people were completely vaccinated.