Turkey makes masks mandatory in Istanbul, 46 other provinces

ISTANBUL (AP) — Turkish authorities have made the wearing of masks mandatory in three major cities to curb the spread of COVID-19 following an uptick in confirmed cases since the country allowed the reopening of many businesses. The governors of Istanbul, Ankara and Bursa announced the mask rule late Wednesday in line with a recommendation by the country’s scientific advisory council. Masks are now obligatory in 47 out of 81 provinces. The statements said masks would be worn in all public spaces. Turkey has reported 182,727 confirmed cases and 4,861 deaths from COVID-19 since March.