The streets of the Slovak capital Bratislava were deserted as a new partial Covid lockdown came into effect in the country where new cases are soaring, AFP reports.

Slovakia, which is battling one of the world's highest Covid-19 infection rates, announced new measures on Wednesday, which include closing non-essential shops.

People have been asked to stay home for much of the day and are allowed outside only between the hours of 1:00am to 5:00am for the next two weeks.

During the day they can only leave the house for essential reasons, including to work or visit essential shops. Schools will also remain open.