In an effort to control the increase in Covid-19 infections in Italy, on Sunday, February 23, the government of this country increased many measures such as disinfecting buses, trains and other public transport - including boats in Venice, banning large gatherings in public places, including events within the framework of the festival in the city of Venice, located in the center of the epidemic - Veneto.
Carnevale di Venezia is one of the most famous festivals in the world, held annually in the city of Venice, attracting about 3 million participants. The special feature of this festival is the beautiful masks and unique costumes of the parades and participants. According to the Governor of the Veneto region, Luca Zaia, "The decree comes into force immediately and will be implemented at midnight tonight."
Carnival of Venice 2019
The announcement by Italian authorities to cancel the festival was seen as predictable given the rapidly increasing epidemic situation in the country, with almost all 157 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 of whom are over 80 years old and in critical condition.
Despite the rapid increase in the number of infected people, Italian authorities have not yet found the source of the outbreak in the north. "Health officials have not yet been able to identify the first case of infection," Angelo Borrelli, head of the National Civil Protection Department, said in an interview in Rome.
In Italy, not only has the Venice Carnival been cancelled, but many other events have also been suspended. Museums, schools and other public events in Venice and the Veneto region have also been cancelled.
