Cuban doctors depart to hard-hit Lombardy region

52 Cuban doctors and medical professionals left to travel to Italy on Saturday to aid the country's fight against the spread of the new coronavirus pandemic. 36 doctors, 15 nurses and logistical aid are flying Milan to provide support to medical staff there who are dealing with a growing caseload of patients, straining Italy's medical system.

The medical professionals' departure came as thousands of tourists began to leave Cuba after authorities ordered a complete shutdown of the island, due to start next Tuesday.

Around 60,000 tourists are set to leave the island, and Cuba will not allow any tourism for at least 30 days.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.

For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

The vast majority of people recover from the new virus.

According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.

Worldwide, the new virus has infected more than 303,000 people and killed more than 12,940.

(Image Credit AP)