Local authorities close Venice Carnival early on virus fears: report

The carnival was due to close on Tuesday after opening on February 8

Last updated: February 23, 2020 | 19:14

1 MIN READ

Masked carnival reveller wears protective face mask at Venice Carnival, which the last two days of, as well as Sunday night's festivities, have been cancelled because of an outbreak of coronavirus, in Venice, Italy February 23, 2020.

Reuters

Also In This Package

Countries evacuating nationals from virus-hit areas

Hong Kongers making own masks amid shortages

How long can a coronavirus survive on surfaces?

Is coronavirus the 'Disease X' WHO warned about?

Rome: The Venice Carnival festival will close Sunday, several days ahead of schedule, because of the coronavirus outbreak in northern Italy, the head of the region said on Sky TG24 television Sunday.

"From this evening, we plan to stop carnival and all sporting activities until March 1," regional president Luca Zaia said in announcing a series of measures to combat the spread of the virus.

The carnival was due to close on Tuesday after opening on February 8.

Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox