Iraqi authorities-impose curfew in Baghdad

Iraqi authorities continued to enforce a curfew on Saturday, as all areas of public gatherings remained closed in a bid to curb the outbreak of the new coronavirus.

The streets of Baghdad were deserted as the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases rose to 820.

A health ministry spokesman said the death toll from the virus currently stood at 54.

Infections rose this week around the country, as Iraq took drastic measures to stem the spread, including closing borders with Iran and banning the entry of all Iranian nationals.

The decision includes the suspension of flights from Baghdad airport.

Iraqi police set up checkpoints and soldiers were deployed in the capital to enforce the lockdown.

Meanwhile, Kadhimiyah neighborhood looked empty of pilgrims and tourists.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of Shiite Muslim pilgrims traditionally make a trek by foot to the twin-domed shrine of Imam Musa al-Kadhim shrine where the revered saint is buried.

Friday prayers at Imam Musa al-Kadhim mosque have been cancelled to stall the spread of the virus - worshippers were told to pray at home.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks.

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

The vast majority of people recover.