Italy Cancels Venice Carnival To Stop Spread Of The Coronavirus

The transcript discusses a surge in coronavirus cases in northern Italy, particularly in the Veneto and Lombardy regions. The governor initially allowed festivities to continue but later canceled them, including the annual carnival. Schools and public events were closed until March 1st. Several towns were placed on lockdown after two deaths, and authorities are searching for patient zero. Over 130 people in Italy tested positive, and globally, the virus has affected nearly 78,000 people, causing over 2,300 deaths.

What was the initial plan for the annual carnival in the Veneto region?

What was the global impact of the coronavirus in terms of cases and deaths mentioned in the text?