Italy is being hit hard by the COVID-19 outbreak, with 366 people dead from the virus – the second-highest number after China.

About 16 million Italians living in the north of the country have spent their first day under the strictest lockdown measures imposed in Europe so far.

CGTN Europe's Ross Cullen said people have registered as suffering from COVID-19 in all 20 regions of Italy. 

The government admits the economy will be  impacted by the measures, with a downturn in activity hurting businesses.