London | The Italian government has dramatically shifted the entire country into coronavirus lockdown, with Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte saying that from Tuesday people would be allowed to move around only for work or for health or family emergencies.

Speaking on television, Mr Conte said Italians should stay at home whenever possible, and announced the suspension of "nightlife", cruise ship visits and all sporting events. School closures and a ban on public gatherings will last until April 3. Previously, the quarantine was restricted to the country's north, where the outbreak started.