It is very important to keep calm, Dep. Health Min Kontozamanis says

"It is very important that the state should act as an example for citizens and that this extraordinary situation is addressed calmly," said Deputy Health Minister Vassilis Kontozamanis in parliament on Thursday, concerning the first case of COVID-19 in Greece.

"Historically, the Greek state has shown seriousness in such situations and has experience in the management of such incidents," he underlined, and referred to the influenza pandemic 10 years ago, as well as the SARS and Ebola viruses. "At this time the state is displaying efficiency, readiness and it is very important to send a message that united and with calmness we can deal with these situations," he said.

Referring to the Act of Legislative Content dealing with emergency action to contain the spread of COVID-19, he said that aspects of this will be applied as and when necessary, depending on how the spread of the disease progresses. "That's why the act was issued.... in order to preempt problems and be better prepared," he explained, adding that the government is ensuring that there are constant and ongoing briefings of the opposition parties on the progress of the disease.