Argentina closes borders for 15 days to combat coronavirus.

By Walter Bianchi and Cassandra Garrison of Reuters - Buenos Aires

Argentina decreed the closure of its borders on Sunday (15) as a precautionary measure in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, President Alberto Fernández announced at a press conference.

"For the next 15 days, no one will be allowed to enter the country, except Argentinians and resident foreigners," the president stated.

"The coronavirus is not just coming from Europe and is starting to affect neighboring countries and ourselves," he added.

Fernández highlighted that classes have been suspended in public and private schools until March 31 as a preventative measure.

After a meeting with authorities and health experts, the president stated that national parks will also be closed, that those over 65 will be given leave from their jobs, and that events that bring together large numbers of people will be suspended.

"Everything indicates that what we need to do is minimize the circulation of the virus. To do everything possible so that the virus does not circulate among us," said Fernández.

"We need to buy time so we can better manage the health issue," he stated.

Argentina's Ministry of Health reported that the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country is 56, with two deaths.

So far, the coronavirus has infected 162 more people worldwide and killed at least 6.070, according to a Reuters tally.

British news agency