Spain's leader says he is declaring a state of emergency for two weeks, a measure that will let him “mobilize all resources," including the military, to contain sharp rise in coronavirus cases.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez made the televised announcement Friday as health authorities confirmed Spain has more than 4,200 infections, with nearly half of those in Madrid. That was an increase by a third compared to one day earlier. So far 120 patients have died.
Sánchez says the special measure allows the government to limit free movement, legally confiscate goods and take control of industries and private facilities, including private hospitals. Authorities can also order measures to ensure food supply and the country’s industrial output.
He says “it's an emergency that affects the life and health of all. The government is going to protect all citizens," warning that cases could skyrocket to more than 10,000 next week.