Virus Cases at Bethlehem Hotel as Palestinians Bar Tourists

(Bloomberg) -- The Palestinian Authority barred tourists and closed all mosques and churches in Bethlehem for the next two weeks, as tests confirmed seven coronavirus infections at a local hotel.

The governing body of Palestinian areas in the West Bank had closed schools and training facilities in the Bethlehem area for 14 days after testing 21 employees at the hotel, the health ministry said in a statement on Thursday.

Bethlehem is a major tourist destination for the PA economy as it houses historical sites like the Church of Nativity, which many Christians believe to be the birthplace of Jesus. The PA also banned large gatherings such as conferences and sporting events, according to the statement.

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