Coronavirus: Italy and Spain Ease Lockdown Restrictions

Spain, Italy and other European countries are further easing their coronavirus lockdown restrictions starting with May 18.

Spain has slightly eased restrictions on some of its least affected islands.

In Italy, most businesses, including bars and hairdressers, are reopening after more than two months of nationwide lockdown measures.

The measures follow consistent drops in the number of daily recorded deaths.

On May 17, Italy recorded the fewest daily deaths since it entered lockdown in March.

According to Italian officials, 145 people had died with the virus in the previous 24 hours. This marked a significant drop from its highest daily death toll, which was more than 900 on March 27.

In Spain, the daily death toll fell below 100 for the first time since it imposed its lockdown restrictions.

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However, officials are warning that complacency over the virus could lead to a second wave of infections.

Restaurants, bars, cafes, hairdressers and shops have been allowed to reopen in Italy, providing social distancing is enforced.

Almost 32,000 people in Italy have died in the pandemic, and the economy is expected to shrink by nearly 10% this year.

Catholic churches are resuming Mass, but there is strict social distancing and worshippers must wear face masks. Other faiths are also being allowed to hold religious services.

However, health officials have warned of the continued dangers of large social gatherings.

Pope Francis held a private Mass at St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, which has been disinfected ahead of its reopening to tourists.

The Mass honored the late Pope John Paul II, 100 years after his birth in Poland.