Coronavirus: Giuseppe Berardelli among 50 priests killed

An Italian priest who gave a respirator to a younger coronavirus patient he did not know has died of the disease.

Father Giuseppe Berardelli, 72, died in hospital in Lovere, Bergamo - one of the worst-hit cities in Italy.
At least 50 priests have reportedly been killed by a Europe News coronavirus in Italy.
The world's worst affected country with 6,077 deaths so far, Italy has been under prolonged lockdown as it tries to stop the spread of infections from the worst-hit northern region of Lombardy.
There are more than 360,000 confirmed cases worldwide. Europe is now at the epicentre of the crisis and the US is facing a surge in cases.

Who was Fr Berardelli?

Giuseppe Berardelli, the main priest in the town of Casnigo, died last week in Lovere hospital.
According to the hospital, he refused to use a respirator his parishioners had bought for him - choosing to give it to a younger patient, instead. Europe Medical News
Residents of Casnigo were reported to have applauded from their windows and balconies as the coffin was taken for burial. There was no funeral. Europe Business News
On Tuesday, Pope Francis led a prayer for the deceased doctors and priests, "thanking God for their heroic example in serving those who were sick".

What is the situation in Italy?

Italy shut down most businesses and banned public gatherings nationwide on 12 March as it tried to halt the spread of the virus.
Bars, restaurants and most shops have closed, as have schools and universities. Europe Distribution Services

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