March 16, 2020 - In Croatia, 7 new cases of coronavirus infection have been reported today, which is a total of 56 since the outbreak of the epidemic, among them two doctors from KB Dubrava and one doctor from KBC Rebro. Three people have recovered.

At 9:00 CET, a press conference of the National Civil Protection Headquarters was held at which new information on the coronavirus in Croatia was published, as reported by Index.

Yesterday, the Croatian authorities extended to almost all of Europe the range of countries from which they will have to self-isolate for 14 days after entering Croatia.

It is recommended to further postpone all rallies and organized gatherings attended by more than 100 people. It is recommended that public events of sports or entertainment are not held (night clubs, concerts, etc.) and competitions without spectators.

There are seven more people infected, Minister Beros confirmed. Thus, the number of cases increased to 56. Three people have recovered, which means that 53 active cases of infection are in Croatia.

Coronavirus COVID-19 Case Breakdown

25 – Zagreb
10 – Rijeka
7 – Osijek
6 – Pula
5 – Varazdin
2 – Sisak
1 – Karlovac

56 – Total Cases
0 – Deaths
3 – Recovered

"We are entering the third phase," Beros said. "The headquarters is carefully considering all the measures it adopts. They are based on expert and scientific input. We have the broadest picture. Thanks also to everyone who is adhering to the measures," Beros said.

"For the sake of our credibility, we ask everyone not to take hasty action. It is important that we fight the threat together. We listen to everyone who has an opinion, but the profession must lead the way," Beros said.

Capak: 9,000 in Self Isolation in Croatia

Krunoslav Capak said it was important to maintain a balance between a good epidemiological situation and the severity and breadth of the measures. "It would not be a good idea to close everything, life would stop, and things could not function. We epidemiologists have to propose to the Headquarters and the Government two measures that we think are prioritized," Capak said. We have 9,000 people in self-isolation, he added.

"The coronavirus problem is a widespread and social problem, and we are working not only within Croatia, but in close contact with colleagues in the environment and at EU level to create a framework where everything can flow as little as possible. We have worked intensively on this. Truck transport of goods, goods, medicines, food works in the way that we have established nine convoys, seven of them have gone to Serbia, one is in Novska," said Minister Bozinovic.

"The EU has banned the export of certain medical supplies, masks beyond borders, to allow circulation of what is necessarily maintained within the member states," Bozinovic added.

Bozinovic: 174 Self Isolation Violations

"I have to commend the emergency services, the border police officers who are preventing illegal migration and who are working under the new system," he said. 174 reports of violations of self-isolation were detected. 40 people were reported, Bozinovic reported.

New Cases: 5 Zagreb, 1 Rijeka and 1 Karlovac

Beros revealed that one of the new cases was one from Rijeka, one from Karlovac and five from Zagreb, including a doctor from Rebra. The Rebra doctor became infected with having people back from skiing, Beroš said, praising his quick reaction and the quick reaction of the Rebra staff.

"He was interviewed in self-isolation yesterday, and it was done in detail and we learned all his contacts. It is very important that KBC Rebro is extraordinarily organized. Epidemiologists find an organized and controlled situation. We talk to everyone who has been in contact, epidemiologists will each contact to contact and check," Capak said.

"A small problem with the evacuation of KB Dubrava has arisen, more contacts of people who have been infected have been detected. So, we will not make a total evacuation. 100 patients will remain in KB Dubrava," Beros said.

"The clinical picture of all patients is milder, there are no patients with significant complications. We will probably have someone more severely ill in the near future. We can expect it to be 3 to 5 percent infected," Beros said.

Capak: Focus Shift to Healthcare System Preparation

"Our initial strategy, to discover contacts and follow up, is now changing. It is important now that we prepare the healthcare system to accommodate more cases and more serious cases," Capak said.

"We have to carefully balance between stricter and what is needed. We have to avoid the Italian scenario; all our measures have proven to be right. Our health system is ready," concluded Beros.

Finally, it was noted that the measures recommended by the Headquarters should be adhered to.

Follow our dedicated page for running updates from Total Croatia News on the coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak.

For the latest March 21 update click here.

March 16, 2020 - There are 56 confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Croatia and 7 new cases, including a doctor from KBC Rebro. Two doctors from KBC Dubrava tested positive yesterday. A fourth patient has recovered. There are currently 52 active cases in Croatia.

Foreign nationals entering Croatia from infection hotspots will be subject to a 14-day quarantine, while a 14-day self-isolation is required for Croatian citizens. Information on countries and areas under travel restrictions for passengers arriving in Croatia was updated on Sunday March 15:

All foreign nationals entering Croatia from the following countries/territories:

– People’s Republic of China: Hubei Province
– Italian Republic
– FR Germany: Heinsberg County in the German State of North Rhine-Westphalia
– Republic of Korea: Daegu City and Cheongdo Province
– Islamic Republic of Iran

will be informed about their compulsory 14-day quarantine, while all Croatian nationals will be issued a decision requiring them to go into a 14-day self-imposed isolation.

All foreign and Croatian nationals entering Croatia from the following countries/territories:

– People’s Republic of China (except the Hubei province)
– Hong Kong (People’s Republic of China)
– Republic of Korea (except Daegu City and the Cheongdo Province)
– Japan
– Republic of Singapore
– French Republic
– Federal Republic of Germany (except Heinsberg County in the State of North Rhine-Westphalia)
– Republic of Austria
– Swiss Confederation
– Kingdom of Spain
– Kingdom of the Netherlands
– Kingdom of Sweden
– United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
– Malaysia
– Republic of Slovenia
– Australia
– Republic of the Philippines
– Socialist Republic of Vietnam
– Kingdom of Cambodia
– New Zealand
– Kingdom of Denmark
– Kingdom of Norway
– Czech Republic
– Republic of Finland
– Hellenic Republic
– State of Israel
– Ireland
– Republic of San Marino
– Republic of Island
– Republic of Poland
– Romania
– Portuguese Republic
– Slovak Republic
– Hungary
– Republic of Belarus
– Republic of Bulgaria
– Republic of North Macedonia
– Kingdom of Thailand
– Republic of India
– Republic of Indonesia
– Republic of Maldives
– Kingdom of Bahrein
– United Arab Emirates
– Republic of Iraq
– Arab Republic of Egypt
– Lebanese Republic
– Islamic Republic of Pakistan
– Peoples Republic of Bangladesh
– United States of America
– Canada
– Federal Republic of Brasil
– Republic of Chile
– Republic of Costa Rica
– Peoples Democratic Republic of Algeria
– Republic of Cameroon
– Republic of Peru
– Republic of Ecuador
– Principality of Andorra
– Republic of Albania
– Republic of Cyprus
– Montenegro
– Principality of Liechtenstein
– Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
– Republic of Malta
– Principality of Monaco
– Republic of Turkey
– Ukraine

will be issued a decision requiring them to go into a 14-day self-imposed isolation.

The list will be updated in accordance with recommendations and the epidemiological situation.

*Follow this page for updates on the coronavirus in Croatia from Total Croatia News. Contact numbers for epidemiologists, travel advisories and measures for preventing the spread of the coronavirus can be found here. For some of the most commonly asked questions, check out our TCN FAQ Guide here.

Fifty-Six Coronavirus Cases in Croatia

As of March 16, 2020; fifty-six coronavirus (COVID-19) patients have been reported in Croatia: 25 in Zagreb, 10 in Rijeka, 7 in Osijek, 6 in Pula, 5 in Varaždin, 2 in Sisak and 1 in Karlovac.

More than 7,131 people are dead from the virus, which originated in Wuhan City, China; and over 181,686 cases have been confirmed globally. There are 100,806 cases outside of mainland China and 27,980 in Italy. 

UPDATED: March 16, 2020 22:00 CET (Central European Time)

National Civil Protection Headquarters Morning Press Conference

The National Civil Protection Headquarters reported 7 new cases of coronavirus infection at their daily 9:00 CET press conference today as reported by Index. There are currently 56 confirmed cases since the outbreak, among them two doctors from KB Dubrava and one doctor from KBC Rebro. Three people had recovered.

Seven New Cases: 5 Zagreb, 1 Rijeka and 1 Karlovac

Health Minister Vili Beros revealed that one new case is from Rijeka, one from Karlovac and five from Zagreb, including a doctor from KBC Rebra. The Rebra doctor became infected after having contact with people who returned from a ski trip, Beroš said, praising his quick reaction and the quick reaction of the KBC Rebra staff.

Bozinovic: 174 Self Isolation Violations

"I have to commend the emergency services, the border police officers who are preventing illegal migration and working under the new system. We have detected 174 violations of self-isolation orders and 40 people were reported,” according to Bozinovic.

Croatia and Regional Daily Updates

(Updates provided by Index)

21:56 - Minister Darko Horvat also presented the first 10 measures from the Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Crafts, which will be proposed at tomorrow's government session.

21:30 - The National Civil Protection Headquarters will receive new, greater powers, Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic announced on Monday, announcing a package of 20 changes to the law that the government would send to parliament as a matter of urgency Tuesday to minimize the negative effects of the coronavirus epidemic.

"There are delays in paying taxes and contributions, enabling liquidity, rescheduling loans. Everyone is paying close attention to this crisis. I think we will be able to overcome this crisis without too much financial expense," Plenkovic said during a guest appearance on Dnevnik Nova TV and added that there is a proposal on the table for the state to provide the minimum wage and the employer the remainder, but that the suspension of overhead is not being considered at this time.

19:59 - The new financial measures were announced by the Minister of Finance Zdravko Maric on RTL Danas, explaining exactly what they entail.

"An integral part of these measures is liquidity. On the one hand, there are public benefits - income tax, income tax and contributions. According to the working version, we will agree on the details throughout the day and night until the session, we are talking about a three-month payment delay with a possible additional three months of extensions. On the other hand, there are credit lines and lines in cooperation with HBOR, CNB and HUB, all aimed in some way to focus similarly on credit arrangements," said Maric.

It may also be possible to delay the payment of loans for citizens.

"We have also included citizens' loans. The banks have shown constructive cooperation here, and I believe that we will succeed in achieving that part, especially in the sectors affected by the coronavirus, although I think that few will go untouched by this crisis. We are talking about a period of about three months." said Maric.

19:56 - Minister of Labor and Pension System Josip Aladrovic announces new measures for employers while a guest on N1 Dnevnik.

"The top priority is safeguarding domestic jobs," Aladrovic said, noting that employers will be provided with funding from the state budget and the European Social Fund, which will stimulate employers to retain labor to co-finance wage costs.

19:54 - A new case of violation of self-isolation occurred in Vrgorac. The man, according to Dalmacija danas, walked around for two days on his return from Italy, instead of being in isolation. He was caught by police.

19:40 - The City of Split has paid 400,000 HRK (52,758 EUR) to the Clinical Hospital Center (KBC Split) from its budget supply to co-finance the costs of renovating and equipping hospital facilities for the isolation of coronavirus infected patients, the city administration announced on Monday night.

19:35 - The onslaught of shoppers into stores has not stopped as they stock up on supplies in fear of movement restrictions and supply disruptions due to the coronavirus epidemic. According to Finance Minister Zdravko Maric, turnover has increased about 40 percent over the same period last year. In terms of supply, Croatia may be ahead of other countries because manufacturers and shops were waiting for the tourist season anyway, in which traffic increased, so they are used to oscillations.

19:10 - The first potential case of the coronavirus infection appeared in the Virovitica-Podravina County. The patient was isolated in the Virovitica General Hospital, and that was confirmed by Miroslav Venus, epidemiologist and director of the County Public Health Institute Sveti rok.

19:00 - The Zadar Civil Protection Headquarters adopted similar measures proposed by Zagreb but did not seek permission from the National Headquarters. At today's press conference in Zagreb, Health Minister Vili Beros emphasized that they do not approve of the recommendations issued by the Zadar County Civil Protection Headquarters at this time.

18:50 - Nela Srsen, a Croatian doctor working in Italy, told us about the situation there. She says the virus was not taken seriously in the beginning. The people, he says, were casual and the wrong messages were being sent. She is skeptical that the virus will disappear when it warms up.

17:54 - Defense Minister Damir Krsticevic called on all members of the Croatian Army to be a personal example of responsible behavior within the circumstances of the coronavirus epidemic, to be an example of health care and be prepared to help us get out of this epidemic as soon as possible.

"This government is doing everything it can to manage the crisis caused by the coronavirus epidemic, which is not easy at all," Krsticic said, adding that it was precisely through these situations that he has prepared the homeland security system which was not even mentioned during this crisis, though it was often emphasized by Krsticevic.

17:50 - Bozinovic was also asked by journalists how he commented on the information that there were a number of Italian citizens on the Croatian coast, in their facilities and in private accommodation.

"When they arrived - I do not know, but that does not mean that these people should be stigmatized now. They have been good neighbors all these years. All the same epidemiological instructions apply for them, and our services will do their job regardless of nationality," Bozinovic said.

In addition to Bozinovic, the same question was asked to Inspector General Andrija Mikulic, but he declined to answer, saying that it was a question "for those who were the first to welcome these people, that is, the border police," after which he left the press conference.

17:44 - The chief of the Civil Protection Headquarters and the Minister of the Interior Davor Bozinovic made a new statement and answered the question whether and when new, more rigorous measures would be adopted in Croatia.

"Now that would be prejudice, what I can say is that there is always a level of professionalism behind these decisions, in this case the epidemiology profession. You see that states make decisions that are often similar to one another. It is likely that our decisions will be on that track as well, and at the appropriate time.” said Bozinovic.

17:10 - The City of Zagreb has issued recommendations on conduct.

16:50 - Tourism Minister Gary Capelli has revealed what measures will be taken to save jobs in the tourist sector.

"It is important for us that there be delays, such as deferrals of tourist tax, tourist membership fees, hotel owners paying concessions in camps on tourist property, that along with all these go 'three plus three' delays, which delays payment for three months,” the tourism minister noted.

That way, Cappelli adds, wages are also likely to be dealt with, "anything that can be dealt with immediately and we are confident that we can cover these expenses for the next six months."

16:29 - The director of the Zagreb KBC Sestre milosrdnice (KBC Sisters of Mercy) Mario Zovak, announced on Monday that, along with KB Dubrava, as the primary respiratory-intensive center for the most severe coronavirus patients, other hospital facilities must be prepared for the worst-case scenarios and treat the sick.

16:10 - Instructions for going to banks and using ATMs issued due to coronavirus.

To reduce the number of people indoors, HUB (Croatian Association of Banks) advises citizens to make the most of digital banking services (mobile and internet banking) and ATM networks. The ATM network and branch offices will be provided with sufficient cash at all times, and citizens are advised to use digital banking and card payment services, HUB said.

If they have to come to the office, the HUB urges citizens to act in accordance with the recommendations of the health services.

16:06 - Minister Beros said 880 tests are in progress. Over 9000 people are under supervision. Another person has recovered for a total of 4 recovered.

15:53 ​ - One person with possible coronavirus symptoms was admitted to Zadar General Hospital today and kept in hospital isolation. The samples were sent to the Infectious Diseases Clinic “Dr. Fran Mihaljević” and findings are expected soon.

15:51 - The Croatian Parliament tomorrow will introduce special protection measures against the spread of coronavirus, and besides the already introduced measures of disinfection and suspension of group visits and international activities; it will suspend all private visits, introduce safeguards in the canteen as well as a special way of monitoring the work of the parliament.

15:32 - Ministers Unveil Measures to Help Economy: Postponement of Paying Credit, Tax ...

15:29 - The County of Karlovac held a dramatic cut on a coronavirus, on which he gave orders to journalists and threatened prisoners with doctors.

15:18 - The next package of measures to be implemented in the County of Istria aimed at suppressing coronavirus will be targeted at the economy, said the Chief of Staff for Civil Protection of the County of Istria, Dino Kozlevac, at a press conference today.

15:15 - By March 16, 2020; the Epidemiology Service of the Institute for Public Health of the Dubrovnik-Neretva County received a total of 455 people from border sanitary inspectors. Of those, 205 completed health surveillance and all had no symptoms of coronavirus infection. There are currently 86 people undergoing home health surveillance. Two people are still quarantined.

At the moment, one male, a Croatian national, who was sampled for COVID-19 infection, was hospitalized and isolated in Dubrovnik General Hospital.

14:51 - The mayor of Rijeka, Vojko Obersnel, on Monday reported on new measures of the city administration in the fight against coronavirus and stressed that among other things, care should be taken not to jeopardize the liquidity of the city budget.

Obersnel noted that they are aware that entrepreneurs will suffer financial losses and that measures to ease the situation and help are being prepared locally, but he added that they depend on measures taken by the government.

"We have to take care that the liquidity of the city budget is not jeopardized because some obligations have to be fulfilled, and the measure of deferred income tax, which was already introduced, will significantly affect the liquidity," he said.

14:50 - In an effort to control the spread of the coronavirus , the Osijek Civilian Protection Headquarters today recommended limiting the working hours of catering establishments to 22:00 CET, while night clubs in the city will not operate after next weekend.

14:34 - As a part of measures to help entrepreneurs, Bjelovar will abolish the surtax, due to the emergence of coronavirus, and delay the payment of utility fees for companies and craftsmen, said Bjelovar Mayor Dario Hrebak on Monday.

The decision to abolish surtax should come into force in early May, since it has to be approved by the City Council, while the decision to defer the utility bills for all businesses and craftsmen for a month or longer and without interest, applies from the beginning March.

14:33 - Multiple people have violated the self-isolation rule. In Podravina, police received more than 20 reports of people violating self-isolation orders. Of the 23 people, police said ePodravina found that five of them had violated the rules of self-isolation.

14:30 - SDP President Davor Bernardic says it is necessary to move to more rigorous measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus epidemic and called on the National Civil Protection Headquarters to not endanger the lives of citizens.

14:20 - Zagreb City Cemeteries, operating at Zagreb Holding, issued recommendations regarding funerals during a coronavirus pandemic.

14:16 - Labor and Pension Minister Josip Aladrovic has announced that the government will also financially stimulate employers to retain workers. He says they are working on measures which they will present to the government tomorrow.

14:05 - Finance Minister Zdravko Maric said today that internal meetings are underway to determine how the deferral of income taxes, contributions, contributions and loan rescheduling will be implemented.

13:55 - The Croatian Chamber of Pharmacies has issued recommendations on the responsible behavior of patients in pharmacies during the coronavirus epidemic, which urge them to keep a distance from pharmacists and people waiting in line, and restrictions have been imposed on dispensing products per patient.

13:43 - As the decision of the Government of Croatia of March 13, 2020 states that elementary school employees are obliged to ensure the admission of students attending class in cases when both parents are employed and there is no other possibility of childcare. The Union of Croatian Teachers provided an analysis conducted at 627 elementary schools regarding the number of students arriving in grades 1-4, as of March 16, 2020. According to a statement, this provides a more realistic picture of student arrivals by county, and so that principals can reconsider their decisions about the necessity of all staff to attend schools.

According to the analysis of received data received from 627 elementary schools as of 13:00 CET; here is a list of students (1st through 4th grade students) who have arrived in schools:

Zagreb County - 6 students (of which 2 extended stays)
Krapina-Zagorje County - 0 students
Sisak-Moslavina County - 41 students (of which 1 extended stay)
Karlovac County - 0 students
Varaždin County - 1 student
Koprivnica-Križevci County - 0 students
Bjelovar-Bilogora County - 0 students
Primorje-Gorski Kotar County - 7 students (all extended stays)
Lika-Senj County - 0 students
Virovitica-Podravina County - 2 students
Požega-Slavonia County - 2 students (both extended stay)
Brod-Posavina County - 2 students
Zadar County - 2 students
Osijek-Baranja County - 1 student
Šibenik-Knin County - 0 students
Vukovar-Srijem County - 0 students
Split-Dalmatia County - 20 students (of which 11 extended stay)
County of Istria - 1 pupil
Dubrovnik-Neretva County 3 students (of which 2 are extended stay)
Međimurje County - 0 students
City of Zagreb - 21 students (9 of which extended stay)

TOTAL: 109 students (of which 34 extended stays)

13:40 - The Croatian Employers Association (HUP) Trade Association points out that there is enough food and hygiene supplies and urges customers not to overdo quantities and to look after the health and safety of the shop employees when buying.

13:15 - The first coronavirus infected patient in Karlovac County is in Ogulin, who became infected in Rijeka in contact with an acquaintance without knowing it, was in the pediatric outpatient clinic of Ogulin Health Center on Friday, Mayor Damir Jelic said on Monday.

13:07 - The City of Zagreb sent a statement today informing them of the delay in conducting the procedure for enrolling children in the first grade of primary school.

13:05 – Press conference in Split is underway. "There is still no positive finding in the County and that is good news. However, this situation cannot be defeated by any institution, it can be only be overcome together. This is the only guarantee of success," said Mayor Blazenko Boban.

13:01 - Crikvenica Introduces Citizens Assistance Service

From today, March 16, 2020; the citizens of Crikvenica will be provided with a free telephone number 0800 2999, which will receive calls from 0 to 24 hours. The Crikvenica City Emergency Service will be available via phone. An on-duty service was set up to minimize leaving the home and personal contact of people, based on the recommendation of the Civil Protection Staff. It will be available to the citizens of the City of Crikvenica, who are at risk, the elderly and the disabled.

12:30 - "None of the patients are positive. I am not afraid. We are taught about all kinds of risks, and I have nothing to fear because the disease is not severe," the minister said.

12:04 - According to instructions from the Ministry of Justice, visits to prisoners in the Zagreb Prison are restricted until April 1, which includes prisoners held in the investigative prison.

12:02 - The residents of Zagreb seem to have taken the instructions of the National Headquarters seriously. As you can see in the photos taken today, the City Center is almost completely empty, and the residents who took to the streets are wearing masks. Markets are empty, cafes are closed, terraces are empty, trams are empty.

11:47 - Minister Beros just came to KB Dubrava. A press release is expected after he comes out.

11:45 - The residents of Bjelovar decided early this morning to rush to the stores and replenish their supplies because of the coronavirus. The photos and shots that come from that city are amazing. More here.

11:37 - Zagreb Zoo Closed to Visitors

"The Zagreb Zoo cares for the animals daily, and in order to provide them with adequate care during the COVID-19 virus pandemic, the zoo is closed to visitors.

The decision takes effect immediately, and by which time this mode of operation of the Garden will last depends on the information and instructions that the Garden will receive from the Government of the Republic of Croatia, the City of Zagreb and Civil Protection," read a statement signed by Damir Skok, Director of the Zagreb Zoo.

11:36 - Additional Protection Measures for Spar Employees

"In order to further protect our employees who are in close contact with customers, we have enabled protective masks, gloves and disinfectants.

Also, for our customers in all branches of SPAR and INTERSPAR we have provided visual markings that show one meter, and the carts, baskets and all surfaces in the shops are regularly disinfected.

To ensure unhindered supply, all our branches will operate on regular business hours. Even in malls which work part-time or are closed, SPAR and INTERSPAR stores will operate normally. In determining working hours, we follow all Crisis Staff instructions.

Also, if necessary and following the instructions of the National Headquarters, we are ready to introduce regulation of entry into shops.

We urge our customers to comply with all the protection measures prescribed by the competent services. This is how you protect yourself, our employees and the entire country," Spar reported today.

11:26 - 8500 people in Croatia are in self-isolation. We have learned that the police are tracking down violators.

There are about 8500 people in mandatory self-isolation, according to a press conference this morning by the National Civil Protection Headquarters. However, not everyone is adhering to the measures they have been given. Despite being potential spreaders of the infection are not staying home but are going outside. Police received 174 reports, and 40 violations of self-isolation have been identified. These cases were handed over to the State Inspectorate for further action, including the imposition of fines.

11:15 - "It is not a good thing that there are irresponsible individuals here, specifically individuals who are literally creating problems with deviant and idiotic behaviour, there is an ongoing cyber-attack on Srce and Carnet," Divjak said.

11:03 – More About the First Case in Karlovac:

The Civil Protection Headquarters of Karlovac held a press conference and reported that the first infected person from the Karlovac area is from Ogulin and became infected in Rijeka as reported by Radio Mrežnica. He reported to the Ogulin Health centre on Saturday after he experienced symptoms. The day before he had been with the child at the Health Centre. All his contacts under supervision, Radio Mreznica reports.

11:01 - Emmezeta announced truncated working hours: 10:00 to 18:00, and their store in Pula is closed.

10:54 - In accordance with the recommendations of the National Civil Protection Headquarters and the precautionary measures during the course of the Coronavirus Outbreak (COVID-19) of the Croatian Institute of Public Health; the Klovićevi Dvori Gallery informs the public to further postpone all upcoming public gatherings and programs. (exhibitions, workshops, lectures and similar). Individual and group visits to the Lotrščak Tower were suspended until the precautionary measures were abolished, the Klovićevi Dvori Gallery reported.

10:30 - "Phase 3 has been activated. As of today, we are in an emergency facility, we only inspect and operate on emergency cases. KBC Osijek will treat potential patients who need respirators.

Positive patients with mild symptoms will be treated in all Slavonian hospitals. We have everything, protective equipment, the crisis headquarters is supplying us daily with the quantities we need. If KBC does not have enough resources for the respiratory centre, we will be able to take staff and equipment from other hospitals. We have 7 confirmed cases, 6 of them are symptomless and one has a temperature. Today we send 13 more samples and we will know the results in the late evening," said Dr. Zubcic.

10:25 - "Care should be taken and caution, but it does not make sense to close everything. The economy is important, and it must not stop. The fact that the health centres are on duty does not mean that they are testing," said Ivanovic from the Osijek Civil Protection Headquarters. "I warn everyone who sees this situation as an opportunity to make money, I warn them not to do this. I think we are all equally responsible, involved, and we can all do the right thing. By 13:00 CET we will prepare a package of measures for local government units and a package of measures for businessmen. Everyone can count on us,” he added.

10:23 - The market in Rijeka is half empty.

10:13 - Zagreb City Emergency Management Office Mayor Pavle Kalinic, was a guest on N1 Television, and commented on a document urging the Zagreb to urgently introduce rigorous measures - limiting the operation of shops and shutting down catering establishments, services, gyms, sports and recreational centres and clubs.

"I signed it and I take full responsibility for it. It is a shame that the document was leaked, but I immediately confirmed its authenticity because there is no reason to hide it," he says.

"These measures are the bare minimum the National Headquarters can accept. China implemented rigorous measures, and Germany has begun to close borders. Everyone is doing something, and we have a situation where a truck can enter Croatia but cannot leave. For the protection of residents it is now essential that the national headquarters to take action," Kalinic said.

He said that Croatia had undertaken stringent measures too late.

"We were late in decision-making by two weeks. Italy is too late, yesterday they were almost 360 dead because they postponed necessary measures. I am afraid that exponential growth (of new cases) will commence. The government will have to accept that sooner or later," Pavle Kalinic said on Novi dan and added that Zagreb public transport is disinfected three times a day.

9:27 - In Osijek-Baranja County seven people are infected with a coronavirus. The patients were placed in the Clinical Hospital Centre Osijek, and this morning they came forward with a statement announcing the hospital's further work. “In accordance with the recommendations of the Ministry of Health and Initiation of the third phase of the fight against the epidemic; non-urgent examinations and the elective surgery program are postponed until further notice,” the hospital said.

8:20 - Health Minister Vili Beros confirmed this morning to N1 that doctor from KBC Rebro is positive for the coronavirus. He was treated epidemiologically, the minister added.

8:10 - Border crossings with Serbia-Montenegro are closed due to the coronavirus for all but their nationals and truck drivers, border checks have been intensified on all border crossings of Croatia with Slovenia, Hungary and Bosnia and Hercegovina, Croatian Auto Club (HAK) reported on Monday.

Therefore, longer waiting times for passenger and especially freight vehicles are possible.

7:41 - All Bosnia and Hercegovina citizens coming from abroad are going into isolation today, Klix reports. The decision was made on Friday and is effective as of 6:00 this morning.

7:33 - The chief of the Osijek Civil Protection Headquarters said that the remaining findings from Zagreb showed that there were no new infected in the Osijek-Baranja County. "There are still 7 positives. About 440 people are in self-isolation, and that number is increasing," Ivanovic said.

7:29 - Capak said a patient in Rijeka was also discharged. It is the third recovery in Croatia. "We can't avoid the doctor's contact with the infected. We're doing everything we can to stop it. Epidemiologists have done everything at Dubrava KB, it was like Rebro. Everything was checked, contacts were excluded ... This is one extremely organized hospital. We didn’t need to introduce any measures. People who have symptoms are wearing masks," Capak said.

7:27 - After Westgate announced yesterday that their hours would be shortened, the same announcement was made on the Supernova page.

"The health and well-being of our customers, employees, partners and our entire community is always our top priority. We want to inform you that in accordance with more stringent preventative measures, new working hours are being applied to prevent the possibility of coronavirus spreading.

Monday - Saturday: 10:00 to 18:00
Sunday: Closed

Retail Food Stores / Pharmacies / Drug Stores / Post Offices / Small Animal Stores Are the Exception and will keep same working hours! Thanks for your understanding," Supernova reported.

7:20 - "It is not realistic to expect that the situation will be resolved in 2 weeks. We will see the development of the situation, the government meets every day, it is not a problem to make a decision in an instant," said HZJZ chief Krunoslav Capak in a guest appearance on Dobro Jutro Hrvatska (Good Morning Croatia).

(Updates provided by Index)

Total Croatia News Coronavirus Coverage

• City of Zagreb to Allow Bill Paying Delay to Citizens Over 65 - here.
• Croatian Government to Pay Companies to Keep Hold of Staff - here.
• Rovinj Feeling Coronavirus Consequences as Tourist Numbers Plummet - here.
• How Much is Coronavirus Really Making Croatian Hotel Industry Suffer? - here.
• City of Trogir Announces Guidelines and Recommendations for Coronavirus Crisis - here.
• Croatian Hotels in Coronavirus Crisis: Cancellations, Temporary Closures, and More - here.
• Self-Isolating in Split? Your Guide to Online Delivery Services - here.

Total Slovenia News & Total Montenegro News Updates

• Coronavirus & Slovenia, Night 16 March: 253 Cases, Flights Suspended - here.
• Coronavirus in Montenegro: COVID-19 FAQs, Health & Travel Update - here.

Live World Coronavirus Updates

• Live world updates from CNN here.
• Live world updates from The Guardian here.
• Live world updates from Al Jazeera here.

Live Health Organization Coronavirus Updates

• Live updated international map tracking spread of coronavirus from Johns Hopkins CSSE here.
• Live updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) here.
• Live updates from the Croatian Institute of Public Health (daily updates at 15:00 CET in Croatian) here.

UPDATED: March 16, 2020 22:00 CET (Central European Time)

For the latest March 21 update click here.

*Follow this page for updates on the coronavirus in Croatia from Total Croatia News. Contact numbers for epidemiologists, travel advisories and measures for preventing the spread of the coronavirus can be found here.

For the latest March 21 update click here.

March 15, 2020 - There are 49 confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Croatia. Foreign nationals entering Croatia from infection hotspots will be subject to a 14-day quarantine, while a 14-day self-isolation is required for Croatian citizens.

Information on countries and areas under travel restrictions for passengers arriving in Croatia was updated on Sunday March 15:

All foreign nationals entering Croatia from the following countries/territories:

– People’s Republic of China: Hubei Province
– Italian Republic
– FR Germany: Heinsberg County in the German State of North Rhine-Westphalia
– Republic of Korea: Daegu City and Cheongdo Province
– Islamic Republic of Iran

will be informed about their compulsory 14-day quarantine, while all Croatian nationals will be issued a decision requiring them to go into a 14-day self-imposed isolation.

All foreign and Croatian nationals entering Croatia from the following countries/territories:

– People’s Republic of China (except the Hubei province)
– Hong Kong (People’s Republic of China)
– Republic of Korea (except Daegu City and the Cheongdo Province)
– Japan
– Republic of Singapore
– French Republic
– Federal Republic of Germany (except Heinsberg County in the State of North Rhine-Westphalia)
– Republic of Austria
– Swiss Confederation
– Kingdom of Spain
– Kingdom of the Netherlands
– Kingdom of Sweden
– United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
– Malaysia
– Republic of Slovenia
– Australia
– Republic of the Philippines
– Socialist Republic of Vietnam
– Kingdom of Cambodia
– New Zealand
– Kingdom of Denmark
– Kingdom of Norway
– Czech Republic
– Republic of Finland
– Hellenic Republic
– State of Israel
– Ireland
– Republic of San Marino
– Republic of Island
– Republic of Poland
– Romania
– Portuguese Republic
– Slovak Republic
– Hungary
– Republic of Belarus
– Republic of Bulgaria
– Republic of North Macedonia
– Kingdom of Thailand
– Republic of India
– Republic of Indonesia
– Republic of Maldives
– Kingdom of Bahrein
– United Arab Emirates
– Republic of Iraq
– Arab Republic of Egypt
– Lebanese Republic
– Islamic Republic of Pakistan
– Peoples Republic of Bangladesh
– United States of America
– Canada
– Federal Republic of Brasil
– Republic of Chile
– Republic of Costa Rica
– Peoples Democratic Republic of Algeria
– Republic of Cameroon
– Republic of Peru
– Republic of Ecuador
– Principality of Andorra
– Republic of Albania
– Republic of Cyprus
– Montenegro
– Principality of Liechtenstein
– Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
– Republic of Malta
– Principality of Monaco
– Republic of Turkey
– Ukraine

will be issued a decision requiring them to go into a 14-day self-imposed isolation.

The list will be updated in accordance with recommendations and the epidemiological situation.

"It is only through joint efforts that we can contribute to maintaining this relatively peaceful epidemiological situation that we now have in Croatia," the Croatia National Civil Protection Headquarters reported at this morning's press conference and repeated the following instructions:

1. People who have cold symptoms and have not been in areas that are more affected by the new coronavirus within the last 14 days should not report to epidemiologists but may contact their family physician by telephone.

2. People who have been in areas which are more affected by the coronavirus within the last 14 days, but are not coughing, who do not have a fever or other signs of a cold over must contact a competent epidemiologist, whose number can be obtained through county centers 112.

3. People who have been in areas more affected by the coronavirus within the last 14 days, who have coughs fever and other cold symptoms, are obliged to contact their family physician by phone for further instructions.

Wash hands with soap for at least 20 seconds. | Use a tissue for coughing or sneezing. | Avoid touching your face. | Index

For some of the most commonly asked questions about coronavirus in Croatia, check out the TCN FAQ Guide here.

*Follow this page for updates on the coronavirus in Croatia from Total Croatia News. Contact numbers for epidemiologists, travel advisories and measures for preventing the spread of the coronavirus can be found here.

Forty-Nine Coronavirus Cases in Croatia

As of March 15, 2020; forty-nine coronavirus (COVID-19) patients have been reported in Croatia: 16 in Zagreb, 10 in Rijeka, 6 in Pula, 5 in Varaždin, 2 in Sisak and 9 in Osijek and 1 TBD, who returned from New York (Numbers on map updated).

• The first patient from Zagreb became infected during his stay in Italy. The two other patients are close contacts. The fourth patient recently returned from a ski trip in Austria. The fifth patient recently came back from a conference in Munich. Five new cases were confirmed Wednesday and Thursday and the patients returned from trips to Austria and Germany. Three more cases were confirmed on Friday: a child, a soldier and a contact of the soldier. Another case, confirmed Saturday, returned from Spain. Two more cases work at the KBC Dubrava (clinic in Zagreb) for a total of sixteen.
• A patient from Rijeka became infected during his stay in Italy. Several other patients had contact with the first patient. The total number of cases is now ten.
• The first patient from Varaždin spent time in Italy. The second case is a truck driver who had been in Italy and was in preventative self-isolation. The third and fourth cases are close contacts of the driver. A fifth case returned from the United States, via Europe. Another patient was confirmed today.
• Six patients in Pula had returned from Italy.
• The first confirmed patient from Sisak returned from Italy. The second returned from Spain.
• Two new cases from Osijek were in contact with an infected person from Zagreb. As of today, seven more cases for a total of nine.
• Another case returned to Croatia from New York. Updates on this case to follow.

More than 6,455 people are dead from the virus, which originated in Wuhan City, China; and over 167,291 cases have been confirmed globally. There are 86,442 cases outside of mainland China and 24,747 in Italy. 

UPDATED: March 15, 2020 19:00 CET (Central European Time)

Croatia National Civil Protection Headquarters Updates

The National Civil Protection Headquarters held their daily afternoon press conference at 16:00 CET as reported by Index.

In Croatia, there are 49 cases of coronavirus infection recorded, including two doctors from KB KBC Dubrava.

"We will mobilize the entire healthcare system, staff and equipment. This is not unexpected; it is important that we have resisted this scenario for such a long time, it has allowed us to do the necessary preparatory work," Vili Beros said.

Capak has revealed that the new case is one returnee from New York. Contacts of people from Osijek are also among the new cases. Two people worked at a ski resort in Austria.

Most Cases Returnees or Contacts of Returnees

"As you can see, the situation shows that we have either returnees from countries or their contacts," he said. The minister indicated that Dubrava had previously been selected as the site of the respiratory center.

"Our exact plan was to activate Dubrava. These developments have accelerated our plans. Evacuation of patients to other hospitals is ongoing. This Zagreb scenario is ready for all regional centers. We have primary, secondary and tertiary care options in all our centers," Beros added.

"By WHO definition, as soon as the first non-imported case occurs, they consider it to be local transmission. We believe that the spread of the disease to the population has not yet taken place," Capak said.

Bozinovic Announced More Rigorous Measures, Starting Tomorrow

"What you are follow in the foreign media, we will also introduce. Our lives will change drastically, all for the purpose of protecting the population and our loved ones. We must take responsibility for ourselves and others. The measures will be implemented tomorrow, including the whole package of economic measures and closing borders is another measure," Bozinovic said.

Capak found that about 8,000 people are in self-isolation. Waiting for 15 findings. The health status of the current patients is good.

"Over 80 percent, and by some accounts, 85 percent of patients have mild symptoms. Elderly people are especially advised to adjust their activities to the new circumstances. They should avoid public transport and doctor visits," Beros repeated.

Highlights from Morning Press Conference

Seven new cases were diagnosed yesterday. At the press conference yesterday morning, the headquarters reported five new cases, in the afternoon another infected person was reported, and another case was discovered late in the evening. In total, 39 people were infected in Croatia as of yesterday (10 more infections by end-of-day March 15).

Government Will Cap Prices on Foods and Drugs

In addition, late last night the government decided to limit the prices of several foods and drugs with maximum prices remaining as they were on January 30.

57 Citizens Confirmed Violating Self Isolation Orders

Minister Bozinovic praised the computer scientists who created a system that helps identify persons who violate self-isolation measures.

"We do not act only on reports from citizens, but also on the regular treatment of the police, if someone is stopped in traffic and should be in self-isolation, they will be sanctioned," he said. 

"In the past 24 hours, controls have been carried out on 57 citizens who do not comply with self-isolation measures. 17 have been reported to the sanitary inspection and will be sanctioned," Bozinovic added.

Capak: Traffic at Border Back to Normal

Krunoslav Capak spoke about new measures at the borders, saying that the citizens of Bosnia and Hercegovina and Serbia will not need to go into self-isolation and that the regime will not change.

Minister Bozinovic said that truck traffic at the borders has returned to normal.

Croatia and Regional Daily Updates

(Updates provided by Index)

20:30 - The director of the Infectious Diseases Clinic "Dr. Fran Mihaljevic" and one of the key persons from the first line of defense against coronavirus, Dr. Alemka Markotic, said in an interview for Dnevnik Nova TV that there was another suspected coronavirus case in the hospital system. She also explained how everyone should behave and what is most important now.

19:00 - The ministry has announced rules for people in self-isolation:

1. Leaving home is prohibited.
2. Contact the appropriate epidemiological center every day.
3. Take your temperature in the morning and evening.
4. Pay attention to the appearance of symptoms of a respiratory infection (high temperature, coughing, sneezing, difficulty breathing).
5. Wash your hands regularly with soap or use sanitary hand cleaner.
6. Regularly clean and disinfect objects and areas where you reside.
7. Regularly ventilate spaces.
8. Use your own sheets, towels and eating utensils
9. Secure a separate room and use a separate bathroom.
10. If you need to go to a health care facility, contact your family doctor beforehand.

18:00 - McDonald's closes for guests. They have released a statement.

"Just as we are responsible for serving guests safe food, we are also responsible to employees for whom we need to ensure a safe working environment. Their safety and health are our priority. With strict adherence to the quality, hygiene and cleanliness; we consider closure of our restaurants to guests one of the critical measures we will take to ensure safety and help prevent the spread of the epidemic," said Pavel Pavlicek, McDonald's Croatia director.

17:50 - Zagreb opens offices for the examination of suspected coronavirus cases. Here they are.

17:30 - A man who violated the decision to self-isolate will be punished.

16:30 - At the end of the afternoon press conference, Ministers Božinović and Beroš made a special appeal to the elderly. They were urged not to leave the house unless they had to. They were also told to avoid rallies and going to the grocery store.

16:05 - A new press conference of the National Civil Protection Headquarters took place. There are currently 49 cases of coronavirus recorded in Croatia. There are still 15 more cases to be confirmed. Minister Bozinovic said the measures being introduced would be increasingly rigorous.

15:30 - Mass was held at the cathedral. There weren't many attendees.

15:10 - Penalties for violation of self-isolation have been announced. The first fine is eight thousand HRK (1052 EUR). But if someone continues to violate self-isolation, the penalties are drastically higher.

14:21 - Plenkovic said a total of 49 were infected at the very beginning of the press conference.

13:00 - Index confirmed that two doctors of KB Dubrava were infected with the coronavirus.

12:05 - Andrej Plenkovic has stated that they are taking all measures against the spread of the coronavirus epidemic that are appropriate at the moment, and if more stringent measures are needed, they will surely take them, but will ensure the normal functioning of life.

The prime minister said this after a vote in HDZ's inter-party elections, questioned whether the closure measures taken by restaurants in Istria would apply to the rest of Croatia.

11:45 - There is no cure for COVID-19, that is, therapy is only symptomatic and supportive. Although most infected people have only mild symptoms, it is still extremely important to try to avoid the infection in every way. Here's how you can do it.

11:16 - The press conference of the Headquarters of Osijek-Baranja County is underway. They said that the five cases from Osijek are contacts of the married couple from Ernestinovo. Still waiting for results for 5 people.

11:05 - From the Rehabilitation Center in Zagreb, a coronavirus case was announced on their site. They reported a virus was detected in one user.

10:50 - The Civil Protection Headquarters of the Republic of Croatia has decided that train drivers and the necessary accompanying railway staff may cross the border with Slovenia, Serbia, Hungary, Bosnia and Herzegovina without restrictions. They will be issued a 14-day self-isolation decision. At the invitation of the employer, they will be able to get out of self-isolation for the purpose of carrying out railway transport operations, and upon completion they shall be obliged to return to self-isolation. The employer is obliged to provide the driver and the necessary accompanying train crew with all the protective equipment they are required to use when performing the business process.

10:45 - Mate Rimac reported on Facebook that he was closing down his business Monday because of the coronavirus.

10:00 - As of yesterday, a quarantine was established in each county with a parking space for trucks to house domestic truck drivers after unloading cargo. Drivers will no longer have to be in self-isolation as before but will leave quarantine to go on route as needed and return to quarantine once their goods have been unloaded. All employers with more than five employees are required to provide quarantine/self-isolation within their business premises in accordance with the prescribed self-isolation measures.

9:45 - Archbishop of Rijeka Msgr. Dr. Ivan Devcic sent a letter yesterday to the priests with new provisions regarding the coronavirus, and at the request of the Chief of the Civil Protection Headquarters of the PGZ, who asks the local Church to suspend all liturgical rites until April 3, 2020. Churches in the Archdiocese of Rijeka must cancel masses at which would have more than 100 people and where people cannot sit with a meter of distance between them.

9:20 - The Diocese of Dubrovnik will broadcast mass over the Internet.

9:30 - Bozinovic: We found 18 people who did not adhere to self-isolation orders and they will be punished.

9:00 - Last night, truck traffic started moving through Croatia to Hungary, Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, confirmed the Minister of the Interior and the Director of the National Civil Protection Headquarters, Davor Bozinovic.

The convoy of lorries, which was detained at the Italian-Slovenian and Slovenian-Croatian borders due to the coronavirus epidemic, departed yesterday evening.

(Updates provided by Index)

Live World Coronavirus Updates

• Live world updates from CNN here.
• Live world updates from The Guardian here.
• Live world updates from Al Jazeera here.

Live Health Organization Coronavirus Updates

• Live updated international map tracking spread of coronavirus from Johns Hopkins CSSE here.
• Live updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) here.
• Live updates from the Croatian Institute of Public Health (daily updates at 15:00 CET in Croatian) here.

Total Croatia News Coronavirus Coverage

• Croatia Travel Update, March 15, 2020: What You Need to Know - here.
• 10 Things Which Await You in Croatia After Corona Crisis - here.
• Mate Rimac Closing Company on Monday, Employee Health Top Priority - here.
• Croatian Government Introducing Price Controls for Certain Items - here.
• Punishments for Breaking Coronavirus Self-Isolation Rules Published - here.
• Two Dubrava Zagreb Hospital Doctors Have Coronavirus, Minister Reveals Details - here.
• Split Bus Station Stops All Lines Outside Croatia, Reduction in Domestic Lines Likely - here.
• Croatian Athletes and Staff Talk About Unexpected Time at Home - here.
• Mayor Stipe Petrina Chooses Prevention, Closes All Cafes and Restaurants in Primosten - here.
• Covid19 Emergency: Solidarity from STIP, Association of Court Interpreters & Translators - here.

UPDATED: March 15, 2020 19:00 CET (Central European Time)

For the latest March 21 update click here.

*Follow this page for updates on the coronavirus in Croatia from Total Croatia News. Contact numbers for epidemiologists, travel advisories and measures for preventing the spread of the coronavirus can be found here.

March 15, 2020 - At this morning’s press conference held by the Civil Protection Staff they announced that the number of coronavirus infected in Croatia had increased. Seven more people were infected, and a total of 46 people were infected in Croatia.

Seven new cases were diagnosed yesterday. In the morning the headquarters reported five new cases, in the afternoon another infected person was reported, and another case was discovered late in the evening. In total, 39 people were infected in Croatia as of yesterday as reported by Index.

In addition, late last night the government decided to limit the prices of several foods and drugs with maximum prices remaining as they were on January 30.

09:17 - When asked if crowds at the borders should be expected, the minister said he should not. "We said yesterday, this is not the time to travel and we ask everyone to refrain from doing so," the minister said.

09:15 - Minister Bozinovic said that there were 52 people quarantined, in Split and Dubrovnik. "You can see for yourself that the situation in the EU is getting worse, we are not ruling it out either. I urge that the messages of the headquarters and the government be monitored because only if we follow what the profession says will we help ourselves, our loved ones and the country," he said.

09:13 - Alemka Markotic added that in self-isolation all persons were assessed as being at high risk, regardless of whether they had symptoms or not.

"The epidemic here can be made worse by irresponsible behavior. This is one of the critical aspects and it is important for people to adhere to the prescribed measures. It is for the benefit of them and their loved ones," she said.

She also commented on the decision to withdraw the decision to self-isolate people from Bosnia and Hercecogovina and Serbia. She said it was not yet about local transmission.

"These are all close contacts or infected out there. Failure to comply with the measures may result in local transmission," she added.

09:12 - Minister Bozinovic praised the computer scientists who created a system that helps identify persons who violate self-isolation measures.

"We do not act only on reports from citizens, but also on the regular treatment of the police, if someone is stopped in traffic and should be in self-isolation, they will be sanctioned," he said.

09:10 - There was a question about the use of ibuprofen, which the French minister said was not being given to the sick.

Alemka Markotic replied that it was not scientifically based. "It is not usually given to patients who are bleeding, and all of our patients receive paracetamol," she said.

Minister Beros added that the advice should be dominated by the opinion of professionals.

09:09 - Minister Beros was asked about mobilization. He said Croatia was ready for anything and how it would adapt.

09:07 - Krunoslav Capak spoke about new measures at the borders, saying that the citizens of Bosnia and Hercegovina and Serbia will not need to go into self-isolation and that the regime will not change.

Asked about the number of people in self-isolation, he said he would announce the exact number at the press conference in the afternoon (16:00 CET).

9:06 - The Minister revealed that four convoys of trucks were taken over and that over 60 trucks were moving to Bajakov and 40 to Stara Gradiška.

Minister Bozinovic said that truck traffic at the borders was normalized.

"In the past 24 hours, controls have been carried out on 57 citizens who do not comply with self-isolation measures. 17 have been reported to the sanitary inspection and will be sanctioned," Bozinovic said.

9:05 - Krunoslav Capak said that information is being collected on the new seven patients and their contacts and that more will be known at 16:00 CET at the next press conference.

09:04 - Alemka Markotic said that there is not much information about the new cases so far, but added that they do not appear to have a serious form of the virus

09:02 - There are 46 people infected in Croatia, Minister Beros said.

A full update will follow in our daily briefing, which will include details from the afternoon press conference, which will be held at 16:00 CET.

Follow this page for running Total Croatia News updates on the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Croatia.

For the latest March 20 update click here.

March 14, 2020 - There are 37 confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Croatia. Foreign nationals entering Croatia from infection hotspots will be subject to a 14-day quarantine, while a 14-day self-isolation is required for Croatian citizens.

Information on countries and areas under travel restrictions for passengers arriving in Croatia can be found here (courtesy of Croatia Airlines and updated March 12).

New Information for Passengers Entering Croatia

1) All foreign nationals entering the Republic of Croatia having visited the following countries/territories in the previous 14 days:

• Italy
• Iran
• China (Hubei province)
• South Korea (Daegu city and Cheongdo province)
• Germany (Heinsberg county in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia)

will be subject to compulsory 14-day quarantine at their own expense.

2) All foreign nationals entering the Republic of Croatia having visited the following countries/territories in the previous 14 days:

• France
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Spain
• Germany (except area listed above)
• Austria
• Great Britain
• Netherlands
• China (except area listed above)
• South Korea (except area listed abouve)
• Japan
• Hong Kong
• Singapore
• Malaysia
• Bahrein
• Slovenia (area Bela Krajina)

will be subject to compulsory 14-day self-imposed isolation. Foreign nationals that do not have residence in the Republic of Croatia must have evidence of booked accommodation.

3) All Croatian citizens entering the Republic of Croatia who have visited countries/areas listed in 1) and 2) will be subject to compulsory 14-day self-imposed isolation/quarantine.

4) For some of the most commonly asked questions about coronavirus in Croatia, check out this TCN FAQ guide, which was published on March 14.

*Follow this page for updates on the coronavirus in Croatia from Total Croatia News. Contact numbers for epidemiologists, travel advisories and measures for preventing the spread of the coronavirus can be found here.

Thirty-Seven Coronavirus Cases in Croatia

As of March 14, 2020; thirty-seven coronavirus (COVID-19) patients have been reported in Croatia: 14 in Zagreb, 8 in Rijeka, 6 in Pula, 5 in Varaždin, 2 in Sisak and 2 in Osijek (Numbers on map updated).

• The first patient from Zagreb became infected during his stay in Italy. The two other patients are close contacts. The fourth patient recently returned from a ski trip in Austria. The fifth patient recently came back from a conference in Munich. Five new cases were confirmed Wednesday and Thursday and the patients returned from trips to Austria and Germany. Three more cases were confirmed on Friday: a child, a soldier and a contact of the soldier. Another case, confirmed Saturday, returned from Spain.
• A patient from Rijeka became infected during his stay in Italy. Several other patients had contact with the first patient. The total number of cases is now eight.
• The first patient from Varaždin spent time in Italy. The second case is a truck driver who had been in Italy and was in preventative self-isolation. The third and fourth cases are close contacts of the driver. A fifth case returned from the United States, via Europe.
• Six patients in Pula had returned from Italy.
• The first confirmed patient from Sisak returned from Italy. The second returned from Spain.
• Two new cases from Osijek were in contact with an infected person from Zagreb.

More than 5,547 people are dead from the virus, which originated in Wuhan City, China; and over 148,923 cases have been confirmed globally. There are 68,099 cases outside of mainland China and 17,660 in Italy. 

UPDATED: March 14, 2020 14:00 CET (Central European Time)

Croatia National Civil Protection Headquarters Update

In Croatia, five new cases of coronavirus infection have been confirmed which brings the total number of cases to 37 as reported by Index. The National Civil Protection Headquarters reported the new cases at their morning briefing, which began at 8:45 CET. And the Ombudsman for Children appealed to the media to maintain high professional standards, especially when reporting on children.

COVID-19 Croatia Patients, Tests, Health Surveillance and Quarantines

So far, a total of 37 patients have been confirmed in the Republic of Croatia, two of whom have recovered.

So far, a total of 616 samples have been tested and 24 more are currently being tested. To date, 6300 people from areas affected by the new coronavirus have been placed under health surveillance. In Croatia, 47 persons are quarantined.

New Cases are Imported or Close Contacts

The Director of the Croatian Institute of Public Health (HZJZ) Krunoslav Capak emphasized that these were still cases of imported cases and close contacts of earlier confirmed patients.

The Director of the Civil Protection of the Republic of Croatia Damir Trut added that another person is expected to be confirmed during the day.

Second Twin Brother Recovered, Released

Capak also said the second twin brother, who was the first to be infected, has recovered. He is negative at the 48-hour test interval and will be released home during the day.

He reports that up to 500 people in Croatia have been tested so far. He said that everything is ready for testing at two locations in Zagreb, which would mean that 160 to 200 tests per location could be done in four shifts. "We can start right away. We have done some testing, and everything is working fine," he said.

Capak Addresses Border Crowds, Self-Isolation Orders

When asked about crowds at the border, Capak replied that they could not let people across the border without obtaining an order for self-isolation.

"From now on, border inspectors will not print the order, but will give official notices to those who arrive from countries marked as category two. The inspector only needs to take their first and last names, phone numbers and where they are traveling. This procedure will take two minutes. The official notices are being completed at HZJZ right now,” Capak said.

The form should be completed today, after which it will be distributed to border crossings.

Capak believes that it is far more important to enforce self-isolation control than penalties for violating self-isolation.

He confirmed reports about the migrant who did not adhere to self-isolation measures and indicated that it was a man from Syria who had returned from Austria.

"It's difficult to control in Porin (hotel near Zagreb designated for asylum-seekers), and this is non-disciplined person. We did our best to quarantine him, I don't know if we were successful. I'll get an update and provide a follow up later," he added.

Pirnat Dragicevic: Do Not Publish Information on Infected Children

Considering that there is one child from a kindergarten in Zagreb infected with the coronavirus so far; Ombudsman for Children Helenca Pirnat Dragicevic urged journalists and editors to adhere to the highest level of professional standards and to protect the welfare of the child in their reporting.

"The role of the media is extremely important, and one with great responsibility given that you play an important role in transmitting information. Children are not excluded from this situation, they are a vulnerable group and it is extremely important not to disclose a child’s information, identity, or disclose information that would allow the public to determine which child is involved, or which child came into contact with an infected person," she said.

It is important, as the ombudsman pointed out, that the approach isn’t sensationalist "which is certainly not in the public interest, and solely to the detriment of the child concerned."

Noting that the City of Zagreb had published information about the child and a kindergarten, she said that citizens and services should publish only verified information and protect the privacy of the child.

School Suspended for Two Weeks Starting Monday

As of Monday, classes in kindergartens, primary and secondary schools and higher education institutions will be suspended for two weeks. Distance learning will be organized by the Ministry of Science and Education. Children up to the age of 11 will be looked after in kindergartens and schools if both parents work and there is no other option.

Postponing, Cancelling Events Over 100 Recommended

It is recommended to further postpone any gatherings and organized gatherings which would be attended by more than 100 people. It is recommended that public events of sports or entertainment are not held at all (night clubs, concerts, etc.).

It is also recommended to hold sports competitions without spectators.

Croatia and Regional Daily Updates

(Updates provided by Index)

16:00 - Strict new measures have been announced for Istria, including the closing of all cafes and restaurants for a month from tomorrow. More on TCN here.

13:17 - Dubrovnik is suffering huge losses due to coronavirus, and the season has not even started. 

13:13 - Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic called on citizens today to trust the country and not stockpile home supplies, saying that there are enough products "for a year" and that "no one will go hungry".

13:06 - Ivan Djikic, a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, explained why so many people became infected in Italy in the short span of time.

"You are fighting an enemy, but you don't really know where it is. It happened in China. Then, through rigorous measures, they were able to do something that many admire. They were able to stop the danger on their territory. The virus was brought to Italy from China. And it was spread not by one patient, but by a dozen or even a hundred. Italy did not know about these cases because no one was doing the right epidemiological analysis of the people who were working in China," explained Djikic of Italy's problem in an interview on HRT.

12:45 - Another 16 people entered quarantine in Split last night.

12:43 - This is how the Zagreb Arena Center looked Saturday afternoon. Arena is one of the busiest shopping centres in Croatia.

Photo Credit | Index Reader

11:46 - European Parliament proposes new plan to help hospitals in Europe fight the coronavirus. Parliament Speaker David Sassoli said on Saturday that all European countries would receive assistance for their health systems.

This includes providing materials to hospitals and funding research to develop a coronavirus vaccine as soon as possible.

In addition, Sassoli announced financial assistance to help maintain jobs and keep the economy stable in the EU states. the European Union has provided at least 37 billion EUR to its members to assist with economic issues.

11:34 - Germany and Italy have increased respirator production in their respective countries to respond to the pandemic that is yet to come.

According to Reuters, Germany has ordered 10,000 respirators, while Italy has ordered 5 thousand respirators. One respirator is about 15,254 EUR.

10:40 - Zagreb Mayor Milan Bandic downplayed the risk of coronavirus infection at first. Now he has changed his tune and is paying for ads in the media which warn of the danger.

10:30 - Among the newly infected is a married couple from Slavonia. They were previously infected by a son-in-law. Everyone is in stable condition.

9:42 - Both twin brothers, the young men who were among the first infected in Croatia, have recovered from the coronavirus.

9:40 - The National Caterers Association has submitted a proposal for self-isolation measures and job placement in the hospitality industry. The proposal, signed by Marin Medak, president of the National Association of Caterers, was sent to President Milanovic, the government, the ministries of tourism, the police and economy, the City of Zagreb and the Croatian Chamber of Trades and Crafts.

9:20 - There are five new confirmed cases in Serbia.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic delivered bizarre address to the nation in which he tried to explain how they wanted to cheat Germany because of respirators.

9:00 - The new Slovenian government, which held its first session immediately after the parliamentary confirmation ceremony on Friday night, has set up a coronavirus epidemic headquarters with Prime Minister Janez Jansa at the helm. Every member of the government wore a face mask at the session.

8:45 - At the morning press conference of the National Civil Protection Headquarters, it was revealed that there are 37 recorded cases in Croatia, which includes 5 new cases.

7:30 - Hungary has introduced drastic measures. Prime Minister Viktor Orban said all schools were closing. He added that this would probably last for months.

(Updates provided by Index)

Live World Coronavirus Updates

• Live world updates from CNN here.
• Live world updates from The Guardian here.
• Live world updates from Al Jazeera here.

Live Health Organization Coronavirus Updates

• Live updated international map tracking spread of coronavirus from Johns Hopkins CSSE here.
• Live updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) here.
• Live updates from the Croatian Institute of Public Health (daily updates at 15:00 CET in Croatian) here.

Total Croatia News Coronavirus Coverage

• Coronavirus in Croatia: 5 New Cases Brings Total to 37, Initial 2 Patients Recovered - here.
• FAQ Coronavirus Croatia: Your Common COVID-19 Questions Answered - here.
• Konzum Prepared, Issues Request to Croatian Coronavirus Stockpilers - here.
• NP Krka: “National Park Open, Acting in Accordance with Instructions” - here.
• Minister Maric Sends Out Message to Croatia's Coronavirus Panic Buyers - here.
• Croatia National Team Will Not Gather in March, Euro 2020 Questionable - here.

UPDATED: March 14, 2020 14:00 CET (Central European Time)

For the latest March 20 update click here.

*Follow this page for updates on the coronavirus in Croatia from Total Croatia News. Contact numbers for epidemiologists, travel advisories and measures for preventing the spread of the coronavirus can be found here.

March 13, 2020 - Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic addressed the press on Friday morning to announce the closure of all schools in Croatia from next week.

“The whole world is at war with the virus. The responsibility of every citizen is an essential discipline that will affect the spread of the epidemic. I call on everyone to be accountable and to listen carefully to the instructions and to all public health professionals. The headquarters will continue with all its activities as before, twice a day at 9 am and at 4 pm.”

"Everybody is thinking about closing schools. Our health experts say that a very small percentage of those infected are below the age of 20. But children are especially important, and we will stop teaching from Monday for two weeks."

Plenkovic said that all schools, from kindergartens to colleges will close from Monday, reports Index.hr. He added that schools will, however, be open in case there is no one to care for the child at home during those hours. 

After this meeting, Minister Zdravko Maric will meet with businesses and representatives of retail chains.

The number of cases of coronavirus in Croatia rose from 27 to 31 overnight, Health Minister Vili Beros announced at a 9am press conference in Zagreb.

There were two new cases in Istria, bringing the total there to 6, and two more in Zagreb, bringing the total to 12. the two Zagreb patients were from the close circle of existing patients, while one of the Istrian cases had returned from Italy, and the other had been in contact with someone from Zagreb who had returned to Switzerland. 

Beros said that he expected that number to rise in the coming days, but that there was no need to panic, and indeed the spreading of panic would have more serious consequences. Taking personal responsibility was crucial - avoiding public gatherings and things that are not necessary. He confirmed that some 500 people had been tested so far. 

TCN is producing a comprehensive daily update of the situation in Croatia, with an updated map of the cases, stats and locations. You can read yesterday's thorough update here, as well as view the latest map below, which will be updated later today. 

Currently there are no infections in Dalmatia at all, and the three entry points by air of Dubrovnik, Split and Zadar are free of the virus. Flights are functioning, although there have been cancellations. An overview of the flight situation from a couple of days ago can be found here - we will try and update the situation later today. 

Borders remain open, apart from some with Serbia, although the ferry connection to Italy has been suspended. In addition to the daily TCN briefing, you can follow all aspects of TCN's coronavirus coverage in the dedicated COVID-19 section by clicking here.