Israeli PM Netanyahu enters quarantine after aide tests positive for coronavirus

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has entered a precautionary self-quarantine after an aide tested positive for the novel coronavirus on March 30. Prime Minister’s office said that Netanyahu has undergone the test for COVID-19 and will remain under quarantine until he gets a clearance from health officials on the basis of test results.

According to media reports, the aide was present at a parliament session attended by Netanyahu and opposition lawmakers last week. The officials who came in contact with the aide will also reportedly self-isolate until the results of the test are out.

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Israel has reported over 4,300 confirmed cases of coronavirus with 16 deaths due to the infection. On March 29, the Israeli cabinet held a vote over the telephone and approved the Health Minister's decision to issue a permit for the acceptance of a donation to the Health Ministry for personal protective equipment (PPE) and treatment of medical staff and patients.

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Nationwide lockdown possible

Earlier, Netanyahu had alerted that if the situation does not improve then there will be no alternative except imposing a lockdown. He had instructed for preparations of a significant tightening of the restrictions to reduce the number of people outside their homes to contain the spread of the virus.

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(With agency inputs)