Albania has had its first death from Coronavirus. As the number of confirmed cases rose to 12, a 73-year-old woman in Durres succumbed to the virus this afternoon.

The woman had returned from Bologna, Italy on 3 March and was hospitalised a few days later as she was suffering from a range of medical ailments. After five days, the woman admitted she had been in Italy and a test for Coronavirus was carried out. It came back positive and the doctors and nurses who tended to her have been tested as well.

So far, all of those infected in Albania have a travel history in Italy. Further possible cases are being analysed and the government has urged citizens to stay at home unless totally necessary.

Last night, police closed over 500 cafes, nightclubs, gyms and live music venues on the orders of the government.

It has been announced that as of tomorrow, the Armed Forces and State Police will be on the street setting up checkpoints in cities, countries, and neighbourhoods. They will be checking for people who have recently arrived from Italy and Greece and ensuring they stay at home for the mandatory 14 days. Anyone who violates this quarantine will be penalised with a fine of up to EUR 5000.

#EU🇪🇺is working on all fronts to tackle #COVID19 outbreak, including by coordinating Member States’ actions and mobilising financial assistance. See more ⬇️.

We are in close contact with the Albanian🇦🇱Government, ready to support their efforts for a coordinated response.

🇪🇺🇦🇱 https://t.co/ZxVBzsXGQj — Luigi Soreca🇪🇺 (@LSorecaEU) March 11, 2020

The European Union’s Ambassador to Albania, Luigi Soreca has told Albanians that the EU is working to coordinate action against the spread of the virus, in cooperation with the Albanian government. He added that the EU is ready to support efforts in the fight against Coronavirus including via means of financial support.