Coronavirus: Pope calls for prayers for the sick and quarantined

Pope Francis issued a special prayer on Saturday for Italian families currently in lockdown as country bids to tackle coronavirus. pontiff paid particular attention to those finding mselves with children at home as schools are closed, or looking after family members with disabilities who can longer access care centres.

Francis encourd faithful to "pray for families so that y will t lose peace in this moment and will succeed to carry on whole family with strength and joy."

Italy is country worst-hit by virus outbreak in Europe. entire country is under lockdown with residents banned from travelling around country except for work and proven necessity.

Italy, which has also closed schools and many businesses including cafe's and restaurants, h more than 17,600 confirmed cases on Friday, with 1,266 deaths.

As well as nationwide lockdown and closures many Italians woke up on Saturday to hear y would also longer be able to visit public s. Mayors of cities including Rome and Milan h decided late on Friday to close public playgrounds and parks. Health authorities have lamented that too many people were garing toger, wher it was to kick around a soccer ball, or jog in groups.