I would like to begin by thanking, first of all and once again, the doctors, the health workers, the researchers who, as I speak to you, are working tirelessly in hospitals to combat the health emergency, to treat our patients. I also want to thank all of you, who are respecting the measures that the Government has taken to combat the spread of the virus. I thank you because I know that you are changing your habits, you are making sacrifices, I know it is not easy, but I also know that with this your renunciations – small or large – you are making a great contribution to the country.

Here following you will find the message Italy’s Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte addressed to the country yesterday, March 4th

This is not the first time that our country is facing national emergencies, but we are a strong country, a country that does not give up, it is in our DNA.

We are facing the challenge of the coronavirus, it is a challenge without a political colour, it must call the whole nation to action, it is a challenge that must be overcome with the commitment of all, citizens, institutions, scientists, health workers, civil servants, law enforcement. Italy as a whole is called to do its part.