ATHENS – Even as worry ratcheted up rapidly over the coronavirus spreading and becoming deadly in Italy, officials at Greece’s embassy said they were coordinating with Greek students on excursions there for their return home.

The embassy said in a press release it was in contact with the principals accompanying the students, adding that there is “no reason for increased concern, let alone panic,” as it tried to assuage fears for their safety with the death toll hitting at least six in Italy.

Earlier, the Ministry of Education announced that no more excursions to Italy will take place for the time being as Italian officials shut down whole towns and regions in a bid to confine the disease.

The Ministry of Education said that students from 10 Greek schools were holidaying in Italy – two were in Milan, one of the most affected areas,  and eight in central and southern regions of the country. The Health Ministry was organizing their return.

The embassy urged Greeks living or vacationing in Italy to closely follow advice of local authorities and said those planning to visit should contact the Italian embassy in Athens for information on the region they plan to visit