(ANSA) - Monza, December 31 - A burga ban went into effect in the northern Italian region of Lombardy Thursday.

Lombardy has banned anyone wearing burqas from entering regional hospitals in what was described as part of an anti-terrorism security measure, officials said.

Also banned under a ruling decided December 10 by the regional government was wearing full motorcycle helmets that obscure faces and balaclava hats.

The ban also covers all official buildings.

