Some countries have begun to cautiously ease lockdown restrictions as they report a drop in new confirmed COVID-19 cases, though social distancing is still being observed and public health protocols remain in place. Below is a list of places that are gradually opening up and entering the second phase of the COVID-19 response.
Austria
Austria has allowed public parks, some small shops, and DIY stores to open from 13 April. If everything goes to plan and the number of new confirmed cases remains low, all stores will reopen on 2 May, while restaurants will open in mid-May. Notably, people using public transport and entering public spaces are required to wear masks.
China
On 8 April, the 11-week lockdown was lifted in Wuhan, the city where the COVID-19 outbreak was first reported. Highways and train stations, as well as the airport, have reopened. However, only citizens who can prove they are healthy can leave the city. Nationwide, some restrictions remain in place, as the Chinese government reported a rise in imported cases from overseas travelers.
Czech Republic
From 8 April, some non-essential businesses and shops have opened, such as DIY and gardening stores, following the introduction of a 30-day nationwide quarantine on 12 March.
Denmark
Denmark was one of the first EU countries to introduce restrictions to curb the spread of COVID-19, and it’s now becoming one of the first to lift them. Daycare centers and primary schools reopened on 15 April after being closed on 12 March. However, most shops, cafes, and restaurants remain closed, with gatherings of more than 10 people banned until 10 May, according to the BBC.
Iran
Government offices reopened across Iran on 11 April, except in the capital Tehran. A ban on travel between cities within provinces has been lifted, while restrictions on travel between provinces are expected to be lifted on 20 April, according to state media.
Italy
A number of businesses, including laundries and shops selling children’s clothes, have reopened on a trial basis. Local media reports indicate that some of the hardest-hit regions, such as Lombardy, are hesitant to lift restrictions until the current lockdown ends on 4 May, resulting in most citizens remaining at home.
Spain
On Easter Monday, a small percentage of the population was allowed to return to work in non-essential industries for the first time since the nationwide lockdown began on 16 March. Masks were distributed at public transport stations, and buses and trains are being sanitized between journeys. Nonetheless, most shops and services remain closed, and further restrictions will not be lifted until May.
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