Rome and Milan remain in the lower-risk yellow zone.
The regions of Campania (Naples), Emilia Romagna and Molise face tougher covid-19 restrictions from 21 February as they pass from lower-risk yellow zones to medium-risk orange zones under Italy s system of covid-19 restrictions.
Based on a weekly report from the Higher Health Institute (ISS), the order is due to be signed this evening by Italy s health minister Roberto Speranza, and comes amid increasing concerns about the spread of new variants. The epidemiological trend shows a slowdown as regards the over-80s and this demonstrates the first effects of the vaccination campaign - said ISS president Silvio Brusaferro - underlining the importance of vaccinations.