ATHENS – An additional package of measures to protect against a coronavirus outbreak were decided at the National Public Health Council that convened on Monday, in the presence of Health Minister Vassilis Kikilias.

The measures include an increase of staff at state hospital laboratories and in the National Public Health Organisation, with emergency fast-track hiring procedures.

After the meeting, Kikilias announced the establishment of the intersector committee at ministries general secretaries and general directors level aiming at the better coordination.

Secondly, the National Public Health Organisation has the authorisation to immediately hire the additional staff needed to support the laboratories in public hospitals with doctors, special scientists and the task forces at the country’s entrances.

“Finally, I would like to once again ask for responsible coverage on an issue of public health that is sensitive and concerns all the Greek society,” Kikilias said.

At least 29 samples sent in from all over Greece have been examined and all have so far come back negative for coronavirus.