ISTANBUL 

Traffic accidents declined nearly 35% in Istanbul province as a result of stay at home orders amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to the provincial police department. 

While the traffic density was around 65% during working hours before the government closed schools, density was 27% March 16, the day schools were closed.

With decreasing density, there has been a significant reduction in the number of fatalities, injuries and damaged property from accidents.

Between March 5 - 15 in Istanbul, 790 accidents occurred with one fatality, 240 involved injuries and 549 saw damages to property.

That is compared to the March 16 - 26 period where 520 accidents were recorded.

The 11-day data before and after coronavirus measures were implemented, accidents dipped 34%.

Turkey has taken a host of measures in its economy, trade, education and health sectors to stem the spread of the virus.

After first appearing in Wuhan, China, in December, the virus, officially known as COVID-19, has spread to at least 175 countries and regions, according to data compiled by U.S.-based Johns Hopkins University.

Data shows more than 590,000 cases have been reported worldwide, with the death toll nearing 27,000 but close to 131,000 recoveries.

Italy, China, Iran, and Spain had seen the most deaths from the virus known as COVID-19. 

Despite the rising number of cases, a vast majority of those infected with the virus suffer mild symptoms and recover.   

*Writing by Burak Dag in Ankara