Originally posted by the Voice of America. Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America, a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in the public domain. Italy Closes Schools, Universities Due to Coronavirus Spread Sabina Castelfranco LONDON - As the coronavirus continues to spread in Europe, extraordinary measures are being put into place on the continent. Organizers of the London Book Fair, one of the publishing industry's biggest gatherings, have canceled the event. Airlines have also significantly cut back on flights. In Italy, where the number of deaths from coronavirus is second only to China, the government has closed all schools and universities until mid-March and barred all sporting events with fans for the next month. Cases of coronavirus worldwide continue to increase, with the flu-like illness now having reached 80 nations. The fast spread of the virus is forcing authorities in many countries to take drastic measures. .