Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said Wednesday that Italy would shut all stores except for pharmacies and food shops to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic. "We will close shops, bars, pubs and restaurants. Home delivery is allowed," Conte said in a national television address as the virus has killed 827 people and infected more than 12,000 in Italy.

Conte did not announce any new restriction on transport. Big businesses such as factories can remain open as long as they adopt "appropriate security measures to prevent contagion," Conte said. Conte said in press conference that essential public services, including public transport and utilities, are "guaranteed" and asked people to stay indoors unless they need to buy food or other necessities.