As of 13 April 2020, confirmed cases of COVID-19 have continued to significantly increase across Europe. At present, there are five countries that have surpassed 50,000 confirmed cases: Spain (169,496), Italy (156,363), France (133,672) Germany (127,854) and the U.K. (85,212). Transportation services are significantly disrupted and restrictions continue to be extended across the continent as officials attempt to contain COVID-19.
On 13 April, Slovenian officials extended a ban on commercial flights from the EU. The extension will last until at least 27 April, when the restriction will be reviewed as required by EU regulations. The restriction does not apply to cargo or humanitarian aircraft.
On 11 April Bulgarian officials issued an order requiring all individuals to wear face masks when in public. Public places include banks, grocery stores, religious facilities, all forms of public transportation as well as public parks and other similar venues. The nationwide order is effective through 26 April.
In Spain, officials extended the duration of border control measures with France and Portugal until 0000 local time on 25 April (2200 UTC on 24 April). During this time, entry into Spain overland from France and Portugal will be restricted to Spanish citizens, permanent residents, commercial cargo and essential personnel such as health care practitioners and diplomatic staff. Additional restrictions on entry via air or seaports remain in effect until at least 22 April.
In Armenia, authorities extended the nationwide state of emergency until at least 12 May. Under the emergency, residents have been ordered to remain at home and restrict outside travel to essential activities such as to procure food and medicine or to seek medical care. Individuals are required to carry a standardized document listing outside activity as well as their passport when traveling outside. Nonessential businesses and public transportation are expected to remain closed for the duration of the emergency.
Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar announced that Ireland’s nationwide lockdown has been extended until at least 5 May. Residents will only be permitted to leave their homes to perform essential activities such as to travel to work, procure food and medicine or seek medical care. All public and private gatherings remain prohibited and travel to offshore islands is banned for non-residents.