Coronavirus

Italian Coronavirus Death Toll Jumps As Officials Tighten Restrictions

As of Friday, there were 1,266 reported deaths across the country. That's 250 more than just 24 hours prior.

Italian Coronavirus Death Toll Jumps As Officials Tighten Restrictions
AP
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The death toll in Italy from the coronavirus continues to rise as officials scramble to contain the outbreak.

Italy's Civil Protection Agency said Friday there were 1,266 reported deaths across the country. That's 250 more than just 24 hours prior. As of Friday, there were more than 17,500 confirmed cases of the virus.

It's likely those numbers will continue to grow in the coming days. But Italy has taken drastic measures to slow the spread of the virus.

Italy's prime minister said Wednesday all nonessential businesses would be closed, except for grocery stores and pharmacies.

Earlier in the week, Italians were ordered to stay at home as much as possible. Public gathering places like museums, sporting events and theaters were closed. Schools will be shut down until April. And travel abroad was limited to only essential business, health emergencies or family emergencies.

Contains footage from CNN.