Coronavirus updates; Kenya suspends flights to Italy over coronavirus

Flight to Italy. PHOTO | FILE

The government has banned flights to Italy over Coronavirus. Italy is the most affected country in Europe followed by Holland. The flights to and from Italy banned with an immediate effect.


The government has suspended direct flights from Italy to Kenya due to the coronavirus outbreak in Verona and Milan.


The National Emergency Response Committee on Coronavirus Chairman and Health CS Mutahi Kagwe said the decision which takes effect immediately was made following Consultations with the Italian Embassy.


“Following Consultations with the Italian Embassy and stakeholders, the National Emergency Response Committee on Coronavirus has concluded that flights from North of Italy, specifically Verona and Milan which usually has direct chartered flights to our coast be suspended effective March 3, 2020,” reads the statement.


“This part of Italy is experiencing Coronavirus incidents which could affect safety to Kenyans, " the statement added.


The suspension of the Italy flights could hurt the tourism economy of Malindi, Kilifi county. Malindi, Watamu, Sabaki, Gongoni and Mambrui in Kilifi county depend on Italian tourism. Italy is the central source of tourists.