Montenegro has a high level of transmission of coronavirus and in just a few days the entire health system could be jeopardised, leading Montenegrin epidemiologist Boban Mugosa said on Monday, reporting about a record number of 803 new COVID-19 cases and five related fatalities.

There are currently 7,177 people in Montenegro who are infected with the virus or one percent of the population. Statistically, that means 1,139 active cases per 100,000 population. With the latest five fatalities the death toll stands at 342.

There are 319 hospitalised Covid patients, 17 of whom are in a serious condition.

“Our situation is very complicated, challenging and serious because the level of local transmission is very high,” said Mugosa, noting that during the weekend citizens did not adhere to epidemiological measures.

Authorities in Montenegro have decided that a curfew will be in force in the capital Podgorica and in Cetinje from 10 pm until 5 am. On Saturday all hospitality facilities were shut down and schools have switched to online classes.