The Buzz | Portugal declares state of emergency over coronavirus, recorded third death

Portugal stepped up its fight against the rapidly spreading coronavirus outbreak yesterday [Macau time], announcing a multi-billion euro stimulus package and clearing the way for declaring a state of emergency, Reuters reported.
Possible measures include restriction on movement of people, temporary requisitioning of businesses, suspension of the right to strike and restrictions to protests and public gatherings. Armed forces can be deployed to enforce the measures.
Cabinet ministers will meet today to decide on exactly what measures will be taken and from when. Portugal has 642 confirmed cases of coronavirus so far, with two reported deaths.
“It is and will be a huge challenge for our way of life and for our economy,” Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa said in a televised address to the nation, explaining the state of emergency is an “exceptional measure in an exceptional time.”
Under Portuguese law, a state of emergency is limited to 15 days but can be extended indefinitely in 15-day periods if necessary.
Portugal has recorded 785 cases of the epidemic and announced yesterday its third death from Covid-19.