Coronavirus Turkey: Authorities are worried over worshipers’ mass returns from Mecca

The number of returning pilgrims is around 20.000!

By the decision of the Turkish Government, 10,330 people have been placed in quarantine and, as a result, the fear of the coronavirus outbreaks spreading has seriously grown in Turkey. The decision concerns pilgrims who had visited Mecca in recent days. According to Turkish media, the number of returning pilgrims amounts to more than 20.000, but the government made the decision as soon as a the first outbreak of coronavirus was detected!

According to the Ankara Prefect, where a large number of people who remain in quarantine can be found, 5 of the pilgrims are experiencing symptoms and have been hospitalized. However, some scientists argue that delaying decision-making can have an impact in the coming days. So far, the Turkish Ministry of Health has announced 6 confirmed coronavirus cases.

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The government has amended one more decision, sparking a massive backlash. It was initially announced on Saturday that flights between Turkey and 9 European countries, including Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands, etc. would be suspended by 17 March midnight, in order for the Turkish nationals who wished to come home to be given time to return. The Minister of Health announced that the date was changing and would accelerate for 15 March, which meant that thousands of Turks who had booked tickets would not be able to return to their country!

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