Europe escalates response to coronavirus as Ireland shuts schools

Ireland, Norway and Denmark have closed schools and universities from Friday to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Ireland's Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said the measures will come as a shock, but were necessary with 43 cases in the country and one death. Picture: AP

Ireland, Norway and Denmark have closed schools, child care and universities from Friday in a dramatic escalation of Europe’s response to the coronavirus virus outbreak.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has also banned indoor gatherings holding more than 100 people and outdoor events of more than 500.

The social distancing manouvres, in place until at least March 29, come as the UK also looks to expand its response to the spread of the coronavirus through the community.

Mr Varadkar, in Washington for a meeting with US vice president Mike Pence, said the measures will come as a shock, but were necessary with 43 cases in the country and one death.

“I know that some of this is coming as a real shock. And it’s going to involve big changes in the way we live our lives. And I know that I’m asking people to make enormous sacrifices. But we’re doing it for each other.’’

He urged staff to work from home where possible, with meetings online.

Mr Varadkar said the measures were necessary following fresh medical advice at a meeting of the national emergency team last night.

“The virus is all over the world, it will continue to spread but it can be slowed,” he said.

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said the closure of nurseries, schools and universities would be for two weeks and then reassessed.

There are more than 600 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Denmark.

Under normal circumstances, a government would not present such far-reaching measures without having all the solutions ready for the many Danes concerned, but we are in an extraordinary situation,” she said.

Norway quickly followed Denmark’s lead and it appeared that most European countries were preparing to implement similar closures by the weekend.

Meanwhile the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the European Council leader Charles Michel issued a joint statement condemning Donald Trump for issuing a European traveller ban without any consultation.

“This crisis requires cooperation,’’ they said.

“We disapprove of the fact that the US decision to impose a travel ban was taken unilaterally and without consultation.’’