Minister of Health signed an order requiring isolation for those who came from China or were in contact with a patient • Minister Litzman: "The virus will probably reach Israel - we will not allow public harm"

Other steps to prevent the spread of the Corona in Israel: Ministry of Health Director General Moshe Bar Seaman Tov signed an official decree on isolation duty on Sunday, according to the Public Health Order, which came to Israel, including through another country, after being in China during The last 14 days before coming to Israel or having been in contact with a verified corona patient - you will be required to stay in solitary confinement, at home or elsewhere.

Photo: Moshe Ben Simhon

The purpose of the order, which expires 30 days, is to prevent the infection of the Corona virus in Israel and it will also apply to anyone who returned to Israel from China before the day of its commencement.

"The person was in doubt whether he was in close contact with a patient, would stay in solitary confinement and contact the Ministry of Health for clarification of the provider," the order said. "The isolation will be for a period of 14 days from the last stay in China for a return, or 14 days from the last contact with a patient."

The order also states that "a person in solitary confinement shall not leave the solitary confinement but with the approval of a physician, in accordance with the conditions of the authorization. The isolation conditions, including hygiene rules and contact with a solitary confinement, shall be in accordance with the recommendations of the Ministry of Health for home isolation, as they will be published from time to time."

According to the order, a person who has returned to Israel and does not have a permanent place of residence in the country, "shall report to the Ministry of Health upon his arrival in Israel or upon the publication of this order, whichever is earlier, of his place of residence during the period of isolation."

Earlier today, Interior Minister Aryeh Deri and Minister of Health Yaakov Litzman toured Ben Gurion Airport to take a closer look at preparations to close the crossings for people staying in China due to the Corona.

Debate on preparation for Corona expansion in Prime Minister Netanyahu's office, today // Photo: Haim Zach / GPO

"We will not allow harm to public health. We are almost certain, unfortunately, that the virus will reach the country. We are preparing to do everything necessary to address this. We pray to God that the virus will not come. Maybe prayers will help," Minister Litzman said.

Interior Minister Deri joined the Minister of Health's remarks, saying: "You don't have to go into hysteria, but you have to follow all the guidelines. Don't take risks when it comes to human life. The virus started in China and is found in many countries. We don't know if it has already arrived in Israel. And it is fast moving, so all the provisions and restrictions according to the instructions of the Ministry of Health.

"My guidance to the immigration authority's employees is that in these matters we are a small head and do not extend judgment. As yesterday, we returned Chinese civilians who boarded a plane from the USSR to Israel even though we said not to bring them here."