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The Island's schools and borders will close today

Isle of Man - image credit CC BY-SA 4.0

First case of human to human transmission recorded

Manx schools and borders will close today (23 Mar) as part of the government's efforts to manage the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. 

The measures were announced following an emergency meeting of the Council of Ministers yesterday (22 Mar).

Borders will be shut from 9am to all non-Island residents except for 'essential workers', with checks to take place at the sea and airports.

Schools will close to most pupils by 3.30pm - Education Minister Dr Alex Allinson says 'it's time to embrace radical change for the health of our nation':

Five cases of COVID-19 have now been confirmed, with the first instance of human to human transmission of the virus on Island now recorded.

Health Minister David Ashford says this marks a fundamental change in the situation:

Pubs, clubs, restaurants, gyms and swimming pools were all made to close their doors to punters from midnight last night (22 March). 

​This morning at 10 am, Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan will be revealing further financial measures designed to support the Manx economy through the pandemic.

The chief minister also urged all those who are over 70 years old, people with an underlying health issues and pregnant women to stay at home wherever possible.

Howard Quayle is calling on all people to follow the latest public health advice:
 

For all the latest information and government advice, head to Manx Radio.com

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