Greece reports first coronavirus case, linked to Italy history

Greece on Wednesday reported its first coronavirus case, a 38-year-old woman who had recently traveled to northern Italy, a health ministry spokesman said.

The female patient is in a Thessaloniki hospital and in good condition, he added.

It comes as the COVID-19 virus continues to surge in Italy, making it the hardest-hit country in Europe.  

The Greek government has also announced the shutdown of some public areas and travel restrictions would be activated in case of a mass outbreak.

The measures, contained in a government decree, include temporary travel bans to and from countries with a large number of infections and enable beds to be requisitioned in hotels and private clinics. 

The decree also foresees the temporary closure of "indoor public gathering areas" such as schools, places of worship, cinemas, theaters, sports halls and businesses.

(With input from AFP)