Israel Mulls Coronavirus Closure on More Cities as Death Toll Rises

As the highly contagious coronavirus spreads around the world, Israel and the Palestinians struggle to contain a local outbreak that has virtually halted daily life and led to tens of thousands of people entering quarantine.

■ 8,018 Israelis have so far tested positive for the coronavirus; 46 people have died, 127 are in serious condition and 106 are on life support. One Israeli tourist died in Italy. So far, 477 have recovered.

■ In the West Bank, 205 cases have been diagnosed so far. One woman in her 60s has died. In Gaza, 12 cases have been diagnosed, the first two after the patients returned from Pakistan.

■ Laboratory material shortages are forcing Israel to reduce testing, and it is unclear when the issue will be resolved.

■ Israel's government intensified restrictions on movement and has called upon citizens to wear face masks in public to better protect themselves and others from the virus. Guidelines explained

■ The ultra-Orthodox city of Bnei Brak, which has become a hotspot for the spread of the virus, has been put on lockdown.

■ For the Health Ministry's official website on the corovavirus outbreak, click here.