Timeline of the COVID-19 pandemic in Croatia

Timeline of the COVID-19 pandemic in Croatia

The timeline of the COVID-19 pandemic in Croatia details the progression of the COVID-19 pandemic in Croatia, a country located in Southeast Europe. The pandemic in Croatia is part of the global outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

January 2020

In January 2020, the Croatian government began monitoring the situation in Wuhan, China, where the outbreak was first identified. The Croatian Institute of Public Health issued guidelines for travelers returning from affected areas.

February 2020

On 25 February 2020, Croatia confirmed its first case of COVID-19 in a patient who had returned from Italy, marking the beginning of the pandemic in the country. The patient was hospitalized in Zagreb.

March 2020

COVID-19 announcement in Pula-Pola, Croatia

By early March, the number of confirmed cases began to rise. The government implemented measures such as closing schools and banning public gatherings. On 19 March, Croatia reported its first death related to COVID-19.

April 2020

In April, the Croatian government extended lockdown measures to curb the spread of the virus. Testing capacity was increased, and healthcare facilities were prepared for a potential surge in cases.

May 2020

As the number of new cases began to decline, Croatia started to ease restrictions. Shops, restaurants, and public spaces were gradually reopened with strict health protocols in place.

June 2020

COVID-19 testing in Čakovec

In June, Croatia experienced a resurgence of cases, particularly in the capital, Zagreb. The government reintroduced some restrictions to control the outbreak.

July 2020

The summer months saw a fluctuation in case numbers, with local outbreaks occurring in various regions. The government emphasized the importance of wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing.

August 2020

Graffiti in Zagreb expressing frustration with COVID-19

In August, Croatia faced challenges with tourists visiting the country, leading to increased transmission rates. The healthcare system remained under pressure, but managed to cope with the demand.

September 2020

Schools reopened in September with new safety measures. The government continued to monitor the situation closely, adjusting policies as needed to prevent further spread.

October 2020

COVID-19 testing in Čakovec

October saw a significant increase in cases, prompting the government to implement stricter measures, including limits on gatherings and mandatory mask-wearing in public spaces.

November 2020

The second wave of the pandemic hit Croatia hard in November, with record numbers of daily cases and deaths. The healthcare system was stretched, and additional restrictions were put in place.

December 2020

Notification about wearing face masks in Drašnice

In December, Croatia began its vaccination campaign, prioritizing healthcare workers and vulnerable populations. The government aimed to vaccinate a significant portion of the population by mid-2021.

2021 and Beyond

Throughout 2021, Croatia continued its vaccination efforts while managing periodic surges in cases. The government adapted its strategies to balance public health with economic recovery.

Related pages

• COVID-19 pandemic in Croatia
• COVID-19 pandemic in Europe
• COVID-19 pandemic by country and territory