Message #142245

[Bianca]

Mexico shutdown



The Mexican government, which has faced criticism for what some see as a slow reaction to this
outbreak, is now taking an increasingly hard line to try to contain the virus, says the BBC's
Stephen Gibbs in Mexico City.

Public buildings have been closed and hundreds of public events suspended.

Schools in and around Mexico City have been closed until 6 May, and some 70% of bars and
restaurants in the capital have been temporarily closed.



"It's eerily quiet here in the capital.
Lots of people with masks"

BBC reader Dr Duncan Wood, Mexico City



People are being strongly urged to avoid shaking hands, and the US embassy has advised visitors
to the country to keep at least six feet (1.8m) from other people.

Mexico's Health Secretary, Jose Cordova, said a total of 1,324 people had been admitted to hospital with suspected symptoms since 13 April and were being tested for the virus.

"In that same period, 81 deaths were recorded probably linked to the virus but only in 20 cases we
have the laboratory tests to confirm it," he said.

Mexico's President Felipe Calderon has announced emergency measures to deal with the situation.

They include powers to isolate individuals suspected of having the virus without fear of legal repercussions.



In Mexico, face masks are handed out, while the head of the WHO voices concern