European leaders have moved to shut the EU’s external borders as they grapple with the quickly spreading virus. The measure is expected to apply to 26 EU states as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The ban came as deaths continued to soar across Europe. Italy remains the worst-hit country with another big surge in cases today. Spain has also partially locked down its 47 million inhabitants In Germany Chancellor Merkel has banned religious services and venues including clubs, bars, leisure facilities, zoos and playgrounds will also be closed.

In France tough new restrictions have come into force. No one can now leave home without a government form – that they print out – to justify their reason for being outside. For the next two weeks, people are only allowed out – to go to work, to buy essential food or medical supplies, for a family emergency, or to exercise or walk a dog – but they must be on their own — facing a fine if these conditions aren’t met.

Lucy Williamson, Mark Lowen, Damian Grammaticas and Jenny Hill report for the News at Ten presented by Sophie Raworth.