" The coronavirus scares ", headlines the regional daily Midi Libre which covers the regions of the south of France, close to Italy. The newspaper regrets that free movement " takes precedence over the spread of the infection in France".

Humanity is concerned about whether the public hospital is ready to face an epidemic in France. The daily believes that the protective measures - essential - will remain ineffective without international coordination. " The virus has nothing to do with selfishness and national identities, chapels and churches ," writes Humanitarian columnist Maurice Ulrich.

Unlike in France, the concern is rather moderate in Austria. " How dangerous is the virus ," wonders the daily Die Presse , before responding in a very pragmatic and rather serene manner. "It is only a matter of time," he said. Even relaxed on the Swiss side of the border. Tests, information campaigns and distribution of flyers are planned, tells us Le Temps. Telecommuting for travelers from Italy too. The country is confident, but aware that the virus is on its doorstep.

In Belgium, floats caricaturing Jews and men disguised as insects took part in the Aalst carnival this Sunday, despite the many controversies that this event has already known. Le Soir reports "a questionable sense of humor". The sociologist Walter Weyns in De Standaard warns, on the other hand, of the crystallization of "dilemmas called to be recurrent. "

Finally, to celebrate Mardi Gras, The Scotesman should be read before tasting delicious pancakes. The Scottish daily newspaper returns to the origins of this Christian holiday, which celebrates the last day before the period of Lent. Pancakes, they owe their existence to an ancient custom: that of using the last remaining ingredients in the house before the period of fasting, which often boiled down to eggs and milk.

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