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 the country bids to tackle the coronavirus. The pontiff paid particular attention to those finding themselves with children at home as schools are closed, or looking after family members with disabilities who can no longer access care centres.

Francis encouraged the faithful to "pray for families so that they will not lose peace in this moment and will succeed to carry on the whole family with strength and joy."

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

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

As well as the nationwide lockdown and closures many Italians woke up on Saturday to hear they would also no longer be able to visit public spaces. Mayors of cities including Rome and Milan had decided late on Friday to close public playgrounds and parks. Health authorities have lamented that too many people were gathering together, whether it was to kick around a soccer ball, or jog in groups.