Following on from Spain’s announcement last Friday that late bars and clubs will be closed to curtail the spread of coronavirus among younger people, Italy follows suit today.

As reported yesterday, Spains regions are applying various closures on late night bars in an attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus in the younger age groups.

Italy has reported infections almost double that of three weeks ago. The average age group of these infections being under 40. Face masks are now compulsory outdoors in some areas at night, and clubs and discos are being closed.

These new regulations will run until early September. The face mask regulations apply to any areas near bars where social gatherings are more likely, and is mandatory between 6pm and 6am.

Roberto Speranza, Italy’s Health Minister said “We cannot nullify the sacrifices made in past months. Our priority must be that of opening schools in September, in full safety.” He also emphasized for younger people to remain cautious saying “if you infect your parents or your grandparents, you risk creating real damage”.

Stefano Patuanelli, Italy’s Industry Minister said “there will be economic damage, but I see no alternative”

Italy’s government has received criticism for allowing clubs to stay open with no face mask wearing or social distancing. With a yearly income of 4 billion euros the sector is calling for support via their lobbying group SILB.

Yesterday 479 new cases were reported. Tourists and the younger club scene have been highlighted by medical experts as the main cause of this. Italy’s death toll has exceeded 35000 since the beginning of the outbreak.

Travelers from Spain, Malta, Greece and Croatia are now being screened at Italy’s airports as of yesterday.

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