Moscow, where the number of coronavirus cases now exceeds 1,000, has introduced a tough self-isolation regime. From Monday, residents of the Russian capital will be only allowed to leave their homes in cases of absolute necessity.
Under the new rules, Muscovites can only go outside if they need urgent medical help or to purchase food or medicine, for which they must use their nearest stores. They may also throw out trash and pet owners will be allowed to walk their animals, inside a radius of 100 metres from their buildings.
The decree, issued by Mayor Sergey Sobyanin, applies to all age groups. People will still be allowed to go to work, if they must, and enter or leave the capital. Moscow is Europe's largest city, with a population of over 13 million.
The measures will be enforced by a special pass scheme. The Mayor's statement promises a "smart control system," to be introduced “in the coming days,” after which residents won’t be allowed to leave their homes without permits. According to reports, this may be managed by camera recognition or mobile phone tracking.