Updated March 8th, 2020 at 22:49 IST

Fears of virus cases among migrants in Greece

The United Nations refugee agency voiced concern Sunday over the risk that the new coronavirus could spread through migrant detention centres in Greece.

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The United Nations refugee agency voiced concern Sunday over the risk that the new coronavirus could spread through migrant detention centres in Greece.

A UNHCR team visited the Greek border to offer advice on hygiene and related issues.

UNHCR official Margaritis Petritzikis also urged Greek authorities to "refrain from any type of violence" against refugees or migrants, although he accepted that Greece had a right to protect its borders.

Thousands of migrants have been trying to cross from Turkey towards Greece after Ankara said earlier this month that it wouldn't prevent them from doing so.

Greece has deployed riot police to the border area to deter people from trying to cross over, and there have been a number of violent confrontations.

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Published March 8th, 2020 at 22:49 IST