The threat grew after its president, who fled the country, had surgery on wounds suffered in a rebel rocket attack on his palace.

Add in endless plugs in magazines and news bulletins and the less addicted may want to flee the country.

Others have fled the country or moved to other cities.

Bank deposits have been fleeing the country on the expectation of capital controls or possible exit from the euro.

Doctors were fleeing the country and field hospitals set up in opposition areas needed help.