Italy's COVID-19 Cases Slightly Decrease... National Lockdown Extended Until May 3

[Asia Economy Reporter Seulgina Jo] The daily increase in new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Italy has fallen below 4,000 again. Italy will extend its nationwide lockdown measures, including movement restrictions, until May 3.

According to the Italian health authorities, as of 6 p.m. on the 10th (local time), the cumulative number of confirmed cases reached 147,577, an increase of 3,951 cases (2.8%) compared to the previous day. The number of new cases reported in one day slightly decreased from 4,204 the day before. The cumulative death toll rose by 570 (3.1%) to 18,849. This is fewer than the 610 deaths reported the previous day. The number of critically ill patients has decreased for seven consecutive days, totaling 3,497.

The Italian government held a cabinet meeting on the same day and decided to extend the nationwide lockdown measures, including movement restrictions, school closures, and non-essential business shutdowns, originally set to last until the 13th of this month, until the 3rd of next month. However, some sectors such as stationery and baby products will be allowed to operate from the 14th if they meet safety regulations. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte described the decision as "difficult but necessary."

Additionally, regarding the agreement reached by EU member states' finance ministers the previous day on a 540 billion euro (approximately 716 trillion won) emergency intra-regional support package, Prime Minister Conte stated that it is "still insufficient" and that Italy "will not accept it." He reiterated the need for an appropriate measure, emphasizing the issuance of EU-level joint bonds, so-called 'corona bonds.'

Meanwhile, the EU has convened an EU summit on the 23rd to discuss economic recovery and other issues related to COVID-19.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.