London streets very quiet during virus outbreak

Streets near many of London's most popular landmarks were much emptier than normal on Thursday after the UK government imposed a lockdown as part of measures to contain the spread of the new coronavirus.

The government's measures, which came into effect on March 23, require people to stay at home - except for limited purposes such as going to the supermarket to shop for basic necessities, or visiting a doctor or pharmacy.People are also allowed to go outside to exercise once a day.

Britons have been told that they must comply with the measures, and police have been given powers to enforce them, including through fines.Millions of people are restricted in their movements and isolating at home, amidst a global pandemic that has sickened at least 1,490,790 people, killed more than 88,000 worldwide and crippled economies.

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 could lead to death.

(Image Credit: AP)