Italy cancels Venice Carnival to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

In an effort to control the surge in Covid-19 cases in Italy, on Sunday, February 23, authorities intensified measures such as disinfecting buses, trains, and other public transport – including boats in Venice – and banning large gatherings in public places, including festival events in Venice, the epicenter of the outbreak in Veneto.

Carnevale di Venezia is one of the world's most famous festivals, held annually in Venice, attracting around 3 million participants. The festival's highlight is the beautiful masks and unique costumes worn by the parade participants and the performers. According to the Governor of Veneto, Luca Zaia, "The decree takes effect immediately and will be implemented at midnight tonight."

The announcement by Italian authorities to cancel the festival was considered predictable given the rapidly escalating epidemic in the country, with almost all of the 157 confirmed cases (as of February 23) concentrated in the north, and at least 25 of them in the Veneto region. In Venice, three people have tested positive for the virus; all three are over 80 years old and are in critical condition.

Despite the rapid increase in the number of infected people, Italian authorities have yet to find the source of the outbreak in the north. "Health officials have not yet been able to identify the first case of infection," said Angelo Borrelli, head of the National Citizens Protection Agency, in an interview in Rome.

In Italy, not only was the Venice Carnival cancelled, but many other events were also suspended. Museums, schools, and other community events in Venice and the Veneto region were also cancelled.

Thu Trang