Turkish army equipped with protective gear against coronavirus

Turkey on Friday distributed protective clothing, rubber gloves, and face masks among its border units to protect them from the coronavirus pandemic, the Defense Ministry said on Friday.

In a statement, Turkey's Ministry of National Defense said soldiers were briefed on ways to remain protected from the virus, including the measures to be taken during contact with individuals crossing the border illegally.

The ministry also posted photographs showing soldiers, donned in protective gear, patrolling and getting their temperature checked.

Turkey has so far reported four deaths from COVID-19 with 359 positive cases, according to the country's health minister.

All sports events have been suspended with people being recommended to stay indoors as much as possible. Restaurants and cafes, meanwhile, remain open for delivery and takeaways only.

The global death toll has exceeded 10,000 as scientists begin trials for a vaccine. Italy has surpassed China as the outbreak's worst-hit country with 3,405 deaths.

Common signs of the infection include fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties.