Mexican government implored to step up lax coronavirus fight

A general view shows an almost empty Periferico after the local government asked residents to stay at home as part of the measures against the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in Mexico City, Mexico March 20, 2020. REUTERS/Tomas Bravo

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexico's government needs to take much bolder action to address the coronavirus pandemic before it wreaks havoc on lives and an economy that was already in a recession, several business leaders and state officials have said.

The government has been slow to implement coronavirus containment measures including travel bans, while President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has downplayed the potentially devastating fallout from the disease. He continues to tour towns across the country, holding large rallies as he hugs supporters and kisses babies.