Authorities clamp down on COVID-19 as cases surge

As the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) races around the world, tanking markets, cutting off travel, and suspending schools for millions of students, governments are desperate to contain it.

In response to the pandemic, the Philippines closed nonessential businesses like restaurants and bars, enacted a curfew from 8 pm to 5 am in COVID-19 hotspots, and increased police visibility to ensure that physical distancing is observed.

Likewise, countries like Japan have halted air travel. Egypt has shuttered archaeological sites like the famed Giza pyramid, while France plans to extend its health emergency until July 4.

In a video call with CNN, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the World Health Organization’s regional director for Africa, fears the virus “could become a fixture in our lives unless a proactive approach is taken by many governments.”

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