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Covid-19 archived service updates

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UPDATE AS OF 14.52 (GMT) Monday 1st June

Metro Manila, the capital region of the Philippines, has begun to ease the lockdown measures that have been in place since mid-March. More people will be allowed to return to work and shops will reopen. However, public facilities like gyms, cinemas, karaoke bars and nightclubs will remain shut.

Japan is considering relaxing its entry ban on visitors from Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, and New Zealand, according to sources quoted in local media. From today, businesses will fully re-open and schools will resume classes in many of Japan's 47 prefectures. Some restrictions remain in place in Tokyo and six other prefectures.

In Mexico, businesses are beginning to resume operations, including car-part manufacturing plants and construction as well as beer factories and bike shops.

A select number of primary school years resume in England today. Open air markets and car showrooms will be allowed to re-open with coronavirus-related measures in place.

Hotels, B&Bs, caravan parks and other tourist accommodation can reopen in Northern Ireland from 20th July, provided the rate of infection remains under control.

Shopping malls, car dealerships, dry cleaners, shoe repair stores, bookshops and launderettes are reopening in Moscow, Russia from today.

South Africa is gradually easing its lockdown restrictions, with the sale of alcohol and movement within districts allowed from today. Final year students in primary and secondary schools will now report back to school on 8th June, after the Department of Basic Education delayed the resumption of classes for a week in order for schools to be better prepared.

Across Europe, countries are further lifting restrictions. Primary schools reopen in Greece, as well as some hotels, open-air cinemas, public swimming pools and golf courses. Portugal's cinemas and theatres open their doors. Restaurants, cafes and museums open in the Netherlands, with bars serving customers again in Norway. Cultural sites are also opening. The Colosseum in Rome is once again allowing visitors, while the Grand Bazaar and Fatih mosque reopen in Istanbul.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

UPDATE AS OF 15.12 (GMT) Friday 29th May

From 8th June in Northern Ireland Large non-food retailers can reopen, including car showrooms, electrical and phone shops. The restrictions will only be lifted if the scientific evidence indicates that the virus continues to be suppressed.

The Welsh government will consider further easing at the next review of the lockdown on 18th June, including reopening non-essential retail and increasing capacity for childcare and public transport to support a wider return to work

In England, from Monday, some non-essential retail will open, with more to come on 15th June, depending on the infection rate. Some bars, restaurants, beauty salons and leisure facilities may be able to open from 4th July. The Premier League is set to restart on 17th June with a full round of fixtures would then be played on the weekend of 19th-21st June. These dates are dependent on all necessary safety measures being in place.

Further lifting of measures in France as nearly all mainland regions will be classed as “Green Zone” meaning restrictions can be eased faster. Cafes and restaurants can now reopen throughout the green zone. Only outside terrace areas can reopen in the orange zone. Restriction remain in Paris, but it will move into Orange from Red on 2nd June.

South Korea is re-imposing some of its social-distancing measures in response to a recent uptick in new infections. Some schools are closing again and many more are delaying plans to reopen.

Croatia has reopened its borders to 10 countries including many of its key tourism markets: Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Germany. Visitors will need to show a negative test for Covid-19 to enter.

Spain has decided to move much of the country to Phase Two of lifting the lockdown on Monday with cinemas, theatres, concert halls and shopping centres allowed to reopen, but in a limited way.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 15.06 (GMT) Thursday 28th May

Lockdown measures in the Russian capital would be partially relaxed from 1st June, with full details provided in the due course. Non-essential shops will reopen, as will providers of basic services such as dry cleaning.

Saudi Arabia has begun to ease a five-day nationwide lockdown imposed during the festival of Eid. The 24-hour curfew has been partially relaxed except in the holy city of Mecca. Anyone wishing to leave home is required to obtain a permit through a government app. Measures will continue to be eased in phases over the next few weeks.

In Switzerland groups of up to 30 people can meet from Saturday.

In Scotland, from Friday, garden centres and drive-through takeaways can reopen, some outdoor work can resume. The construction industry can start site preparation.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 15.18 (GMT) Wednesday 27th May

South Africa is getting ready to lift some of its lockdown restrictions on 1st June. President Cyril Ramaphosa says churches and other recognised places of worship will be allowed to reopen, and that the overnight curfew currently in place will be lifted. Schools and some businesses are also going to open.

The US has introduced a travel ban on foreign nationals who have been to Brazil in the last 14 days.

Domestic flights within Saudi Arabia will resume on Sunday. The country will begin to gradually ease its pandemic restrictions this week and expects that by 21st June a curfew can end completely.

South Korea has reported its biggest spike in coronavirus cases in two months. Forty new cases have been reported in the last 24 hours which is the highest increase in daily infections for 49 days.

Germany has extended social distancing rules until 29 June. Up to 10 people will be allowed to meet in public they should still try to see as few people as possible.

Luxembourg has begun reopening outdoor areas in bars and restaurants as it eases its lockdown measures.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 15.00 (GMT) Tuesday 26th May

Japan has lifted its state of emergency, but warned it could be re-imposed if infections picked up. Limits on regional travel will be lifted on 19th June

Argentina is extending the mandatory lockdown in Buenos Aires until 7th June after a steady increase in the city's confirmed cases

The UK has announced that non-essential shops will be allowed to open from 15th June

Spain says foreign visitors will no longer have to undergo a two-week quarantine from 1st July

Iceland has also eased its restrictions, allowing gatherings of up to 200 people. Nightclubs and gyms are also allowed to reopen

Saudi Arabia will lift its curfew across the country on 21st June, with the only exception being the holy city of Mecca - where shortened curfew hours will remain in place, from 3pm to 6am.

The Czech Republic is opening its border crossings with Austria and Germany from today although restrictions on who is permitted to enter the country remain. Returning citizens, foreign residents, and European Union students and business travellers will be allowed in. Police will carry out spot checks on cars, and passengers will need to provide a certificate proving they do not have Covid-19 or else face two weeks of quarantine. From tomorrow, the border with Slovakia will reopen, but visitors from either side of the border will have to return within 48 hours.

Pakistan's top health official has warned that lockdown might resume as cases and deaths rise.

The US administration has brought forward new travel restrictions on Brazil, where coronavirus cases have risen sharply in recent days. The White House said on Monday that the restrictions will now come in effect today at 23:59 local time.

The German government is seeking to lift the travel ban for 31 European countries next month. A draft document that goes to cabinet tomorrow recommends allowing travel to all 26 other EU states plus the UK and non-EU countries like Iceland and Norway that are in the border-free Schengen zone.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 15.05 (GMT) Friday 22nd May

In a move to facilitate business meetings, citizens and legal foreign residents of Slovakia can visit the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Austria, Croatia, Slovenia, Germany and Switzerland as long as they return within 24 hours.

Australia is seeking an exemption from moves in the UK to bring in a mandatory 14-day quarantine for all new arrivals claiming that the success in controlling the virus means the risk from Australians travelling in relatively low. International travellers could be fined £1,000 if they fail to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival in the UK, the government is expected to announce later.

Many local councils in England say they cannot guarantee primary schools will reopen on 1st June.

Schools will gradually reopen in Uruguay, after plans were announced to introduce a mixture of classroom-based and virtual lessons from 1st June.

In Denmark, museums, art galleries and zoos are all allowed to open their doors from today, as are cinemas and theatres. All venues are expected to follow strict social distancing guidelines.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 14.55 (GMT) Thursday 21st May

Turkey have lifted the requirement for a 14-day stay in a government run quarantine facility for all new arrivals. People will be tested as they enter the country and if they show a high temperature or any Covid-like symptoms they will be taken to a hospital for treatment, if no symptoms are present they would be permitted to return to their homes and isolate for 14 days. Turkish Airlines will resume operations on 10th June and Pegasus on 15th.

The Greek Prime Minister says the country’s tourism season will begin on 15 June, with hotels set to reopen and international flights to the country slowly restarting from 1 July. There was also an announcement about a tax cut for travel within the country in a bid to boost the lockdown-hit economy.

In the US, after Connecticut lifted some restrictions yesterday, every US state has now partially reopened after a two-month shutdown, however the degree of restrictions and what sectors are permitted to operate vary greatly.

Japan says it will lift its state of emergency in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo today as the number of virus cases continue to drop. Most places in the country have already had the state of emergency lifted, but it is still in place in Tokyo, and four other prefectures.

In Pakistan, The Supreme Court on Monday ordered all shopping malls and markets to stay open even during weekends.

EasyJet will resume some flights on 15 June, with all passengers and cabin crew told to wear face masks; the announcement said the airline would restart a "small number" of routes where there is enough customer demand.

Cyprus has announced an end to many of its lockdown measures. Outdoor areas for restaurants and pubs reopen today, as do hairdressers, parks, and playgrounds, and people can host up to 10 visitors in their homes.

In Scotland, the first minister confirmed a "careful" relaxation of restrictions was planned from 28 May, allowing people to sunbathe, meet members of another household outside and travel short distances for exercise.

Construction sites will begin to reopen but workers in other sectors will continue to be encouraged to stay at home if they can work remotely. There will be a gradual reopening of drive-through food outlets, and garden centres and plant nurseries will be able to start operating with social distancing measures in place. Schools in Scotland will reopen from 11th August in a “blended model of part time in-school and part time at-home learning.”

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 15.00 (GMT) Wednesday 20th May

The US administration is "likely" to extend non-essential travel restrictions at US land borders with Canada and Mexico. Border restrictions imposed on 21st March to help combat the pandemic were due to expire today.

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau described an agreement to extend the closure of the US border by a further 30 days as "an important decision that will keep people in both countries safe".

In Canada, the province of Ontario will not reopen schools until September, this includes private schools and childcare centres.

The pandemic is growing in Latin America. It is threatening vulnerable indigenous communities in the Amazon region shared by Brazil, Colombia, and Peru.

Singapore has announced it will end its partial state of lockdown on 1st June, though most of the current guidelines remain will in place. The country’s measures will be progressively lifted in three phases. In this first phase more people will be allowed to return to their workplaces, to visit their parents and schools will gradually reopen. The second phase, where businesses like retail outlets and gyms may reopen, will depend on the progress made during the first phase.

High school seniors are returning to school in South Korea today, with temperature testing in place and a requirement for masks to be worn. If a case is confirmed within a school, the school will switch back to online classes immediately. By using a phased approach, it is hoped that all the country's students will get back to school by 8th June.

In Australia, the state of New South Wales will allow its residents to travel across the region for holidays from June.

India recorded more than 5,200 new infections yesterday, the biggest increase so far in a single day; it comes as the country begins to ease lockdowns measures, in which almost everything except essential services such as healthcare and food supplies was shut. Domestic flights will resume on Monday 25th May after a two-month break.

Greece is expected to announce plans later that would allow in visitors from other European countries as early as 1st July.

Spain has made it mandatory for everyone over the age of six or people with health issues are to wear a face mask in places such as shops, restaurants, and public transport, and outdoors as well if social distancing isn’t possible. The rules come into effect tomorrow. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has asked parliament to extend the country's state of emergency for another two weeks. The government wants to extend the state of alarm for a fifth time to 7th June when it expires on Saturday.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 15.05 (GMT) Tuesday 19th May

With India extending its lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus until 31st May, states have been given more autonomy to ease restrictions. In Delhi, taxis, private cars and auto-rickshaws can operate between 07:00 and 19:00, while shops and marketplaces are also open. But in Mumbai, the city has been put into containment or "red" zones meaning only essential services are open. Various levels of restrictions are in place across the country.

People in England are now being advised to wear face coverings in some enclosed spaces. The Government are saying people should aim to wear face coverings on public transport and in some shops and also in other "enclosed spaces where social distancing is not always possible and they come into contact with others that they do not normally meet". It is pointed out that these face coverings do not mean medical grade or surgical facemasks, or respirators. The Scottish government already recommends people wear them when in shops and on public transport. The Scottish government will publish a "route map" on Thursday setting out how coronavirus restrictions could be lifted on a phased-basis.

Portugal has reopened creches, cafes, restaurants and many more shops, in a new phase of easing restrictions.

Spain has lifted a ban on all sea and air travel coming from Italy as it looks to further ease lockdown restrictions, officials have confirmed. Travellers from Italy will have to comply with a two-week quarantine like other foreign visitors, while a state of emergency remains in place.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 15.05 (GMT) Monday 18th May

India has extended its nationwide lockdown until 31 May, although there are considerable relaxations.

Italy reported 145 new deaths on Sunday, its lowest toll since 9th March. The country is set to further ease its lockdown measures from today with most businesses able to reopen.

Several provinces along Spain’s Mediterranean coast in Valencia, in the southern region of Andalusia, and in the country’s interior move into phase one today. Cafes and restaurants in those places can now serve customers, but only at outdoor tables; groups of up to 10 people can gather in the street or in homes; and smaller cultural events are allowed to take place. Madrid and Barcelona are not yet in phase one, due to safety concerns, and therefore remain under tighter restrictions.

Belgium is to begin reopening primary and secondary schools under strict conditions.

Portugal, Denmark and Ireland are also easing their lockdown measures.

Greece enters the third phase of the government’s plan to lift restrictions; from today Greeks are allowed to travel to neighbouring regions on the mainland, and ferries to Crete have restarted. Middle and high schools reopen as do shopping malls.

A number of countries have announced stricter measures to prevent the spread of the virus during Eid al-Fitr. Saudi Arabia is planning a nationwide lockdown over the holiday, while Egypt will bring forward the start of its curfew by four hours and halt public transport for six days.

Lebanon’s four-day lockdown has ended, although an overnight curfew will remain in place.

Qatar and Kuwait have announced tough penalties for people who fail to wear a face mask in public. Those breaking the rules in Qatar risk up to three years in prison, while the maximum punishment in Kuwait will be three months.

The Northern Ireland executive is meeting today to look at whether the scientific advice justifies lockdown measures being eased.

Coronavirus lockdown measures in Scotland could begin to be lifted from 28th May, the first minister has announced.

In the US, Several states, including South Carolina and Maine, are expanding their reopening measures from today. In Texas, it is expected that an announcement will be made confirming gyms, non-essential manufacturing and some work spaces will reopen from today with restrictions.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 15.05 (GMT) Friday 15th May

Garden centres and recycling centres in Northern Ireland can reopen from next Monday as part of the first steps to ease lockdown, First Minister Arlene Foster has said. On Tuesday, the executive published a five-phase blueprint for lifting restrictions but it did not include a timeframe.

Yesterday in Italy 262 coronavirus-related deaths were reported in the previous 24 hours, the highest daily tally since 7th May. Italy started easing lockdown restrictions on 4th May, with people now being allowed to visit their relatives in small numbers. Parks, factories and building sites are being reopened.

Qatar has made the wearing of face masks compulsory, warning that anyone defying the order could face up to three years in prison or be fined more than $50,000 (£41,000). The Gulf state has currently more than 28,000 infections, with 14 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University's worldwide tally.

Restaurants and cafes are reopening in Austria. Tables should be at least a metre apart, there should be a maximum of four adults plus children. No salt-shakers are allowed on tables.

Slovenia has become the first European country to declare an official end to its coronavirus epidemic, in total it reported 1,464 cases and 103 deaths. The official end of the epidemic will allow EU citizens to cross at certain border points without having to quarantine.

Germany will ease quarantine rules for visitors arriving from the EU and the UK, the interior ministry says. On Wednesday it began to open some border crossings with Austria, France and Switzerland. The country said it is aiming for "free travel" in the EU by June. Visitors will still be required to quarantine for 14 days if they are coming from a country with "elevated infections", an interior ministry spokesperson said.

The Welsh government has revealed its roadmap for easing lockdown measures. Announcing the exit plan, First Minister Mark Drakeford said it would be based on a traffic light system - moving towards a "green zone" under which the most restrictions would be lifted. No dates were provided for when changes could be made with the government saying it would move "carefully and cautiously" in easing the lockdown.

New York City's lockdown has been extended until 28 May at the earliest. New York State governor Andrew Cuomo announced the extension, while easing the shutdown in other parts of the state. Cuomo announced in a tweet that five regions of the state could now begin reopening non-essential businesses.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 15.01 (GMT) Thursday 14th May

Further details regarding the European Commission’s guidelines for future travel were released yesterday. It advises member states to consider enforcing several methods to reduce the spread of the infection. These include:

Airline and train passengers to buy tickets and check in online
Physical distancing should be ensured at security checks and luggage drop off and collection
Food, drink, and other goods may no longer be on sale on board flights, to limit contact
Fewer passengers should be allowed on board aircraft, buses, trains, and ferries
Passengers who are not from the same household should be seated apart
Disinfectant gels should be available in vehicles, at airports, train stations and other transport hubs
All transport staff should have protective equipment, with the possibility of protective barriers between the passengers and the driver on buses and trains
Ventilation on flights and public transport should be strengthened both with air filters and natural ventilation

Belgium's national security council has approved moving to the second phase of the country's plan to relax the lockdown next Monday. This will involve a partial reopening of primary and secondary schools under strict conditions, however nurseries will remain closed. Museums will be able to open from 18th May if they sell tickets online and take measures to limit crowds. Hairdressers and other businesses that require close contact with customers can reopen but must operate on a by appointment only system and with social distancing in the premises. Markets can reopen with a maximum of 50 merchants, but only if local authorities approve. Masks will be compulsory for sellers and recommended for customers. Social distancing and a "traffic" system for moving around will be required.

Poland will allow hairdressers and restaurants to reopen from Monday as it continues to ease restrictions.

Canada has asked the US to extend the ban on non-essential travel cross the border until June. A second 30-day extension would keep the border shut to tourists, visitors, and other non-essential travellers until 21st June.

Carmakers Ford and Vauxhall have announced plans to restart production at UK factories. Ford is to resume work from 18th May at its engine plants in Dagenham, Essex, and Bridgend, South Wales. The company's engine plant in Valencia, Spain, will also start operations again - meaning that all of Ford's European manufacturing facilities will be open. Vauxhall’s van production plant in Luton will resume operations on the same date but the car production plant, Ellesmere Port, will remain closed.

The Chilean government is to impose a total lockdown across the capital, Santiago, following a spike in the number of coronavirus infections. The new restrictions will affect eight million people and come into effect on Friday evening.

Japan is expected to lift the state of emergency in most of the country today, although Tokyo, Osaka and other badly affected prefectures will keep continuing with restrictive measures for now. The state of emergency was meant to last until 6th May, but it was then extended to 31st May.

Tunisia has reduced its nightly curfew hours for a second time. A 12-hour curfew that was introduced a little under a month ago to help combat the coronavirus was reduced to six hours from Wednesday night. The country has not recorded any new cases of the disease for three days. Some restrictions remain; large public events are banned, a permit is required for travel between regions, and shopping malls, bars and restaurants remain closed.

A few days after Pakistan started to ease its lockdown, authorities in Sindh province have sealed some markets for flouting social distancing measures.

New Zealand has moved into its next stage of reopening. Shopping malls, clothing shops, cinemas, garden centres, hairdressers, massage parlours and restaurants are all open for business. Bars will have to wait another week. New Zealand only started to exit its lockdown three weeks ago. It has reported no new cases for the past three days.

Taiwan has gone a whole month without recording any domestically transmitted cases. In total just 440 cases and seven deaths were registered.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 14.55 (GMT) Wednesday 13th May

In the UK from today people who are unable work from home, and who work in industries which are currently or able to reopen, are being “actively” encouraged to return. Workplaces are expected to be “Covid-safe” and follow guidelines issued by the government. These include manufacturing and construction sectors. Public transport is limited, and people are expected to maintain social distancing, again following guidelines set by the government, but there have been issues with following these due to the amount of people requiring the services.

In California, USA, some shopping malls in certain counties will be allowed to partially reopen, though tattoo parlours, nail salons and gyms remain closed. The easing of restrictions comes as infections in California appear to be stabilising, but the state allows local governments to impose their own stricter guidelines. Areas like Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay area for example, have not yet eased restrictions.

Thailand has reported no new virus infections for the past 24 hours. For the first time since 9th March the daily toll was zero.

Germany will start to open some border crossings beginning Saturday; the border with Luxembourg and possibly Denmark. Border controls with France, Switzerland and Austria would be extended until 16th June, but as many crossings as possible will be opened.

The European Commission has set out guidance for EU countries to resume travel and tourism from this summer onwards. Recommendations include ending blanket restrictions on free movement and replace them with more targeted measures over time. A coordinated approach with a phased introduction would allow seasonal workers across borders, followed by lifting restrictions between countries that have managed to get the virus under a comparable level of control. This would be followed by the opening of all internal borders, and countries should not discriminate against any other EU countries.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 15.05 (GMT) Tuesday 12th May

In the UK, the Prime Minister appeared before the House of Commons and also hosted a press conference in order to provide further details and clarification after his statement on Sunday evening. While no new action or policy was announced, it was confirmed that from Wednesday, those who can not work from home but whose sectors are open should return to work. Employers are responsible for ensuring that workspaces are “Covid-safe”. Public transport will be subject to social distancing measures and limited services will be available. Workplace and Public transport guidance will be released soon. A limited number of school classes will be reopened from 1st June at the earliest and other entertainment venues can reopen from July; again, all these measures are subject to a reduction in infection rates. People can now leave the house as often as they wish for exercise and can travel a reasonable distance to do so.

In Russia, the “non-working days” period ends today, and Vladimir Putin confirms regional authorities would have a final say on whether to ease the current restrictions.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced the first easing of the state's lockdown, saying that some low-risk businesses can reopen starting on Friday. The number of cases in New York has been falling daily and are now at levels similar to mid-March.

In Kyiv, Ukraine, the easing of quarantine restrictions means that shops, beauty salons, hairdressers, parks and squares are all open again. Restaurants and cafes are also allowed to resume service - but only if the tables are carefully spaced and outside.

All overseas travellers arriving in Spain will have to undergo a 14-day quarantine, starting on 15th May. They will only be allowed out for medical reasons or for groceries and will have to wear masks when doing so. Restrictions will be eased in two-week blocks until 10 June, but only in some parts of the country. Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, Malaga and some regions in the north-east will stay under full lockdown for the moment.

In Greece shops are now all able to reopen from 11 May and indoor shopping centres can do so on 1 June. Cafes and restaurants will be allowed to open on 1 June, but only with outdoor seating and clear distance between chairs.

UPDATE AS OF 14.50 (GMT) Monday 11th May

Further easing of restrictions in Germany led to an increase in the rate of infections, causing some alarm that lockdown measures could be reapplied. However, it should be noted that there was also an increase in the rate after earlier relaxation but these again fell after a short period and numbers are slowly falling according to early reports. Due to weekend delays in reporting numbers, though, it may be a few days before any accurate assessments can be made.

There are areas of China that are seeing an increase in infections, prompting fears of a second wave. Wuhan saw five new cases, the largest increase since 11th March. However, overall, numbers are still low and most cases are imported; no new deaths were reported.

South Korea is renewing some restrictions after a cluster of new infections linked to entertainment venues in Seoul.

As Spain emerges from it’s lockdown measures it has reported the lowest number of deaths in two months. In some regions gathering of up to ten people will be allowed and restaurants can reopen their outdoor areas as long as they comply with social distancing measures.

Across Europe several countries ease certain restrictions. Clothes shops, bookshops, florists and certain beauty salons will reopen in France, but restaurants and other entertainment venues remain closed. Primary schools will start again but with a very limited number of pupils.

Most businesses in Belgium reopen, but again not restaurants, cafes, cinemas, or other entertainment venues.

Primary schools in the Netherlands will partially reopen along with Libraries, some beauty salons and some other services.

Both Primary and Middle schools in Switzerland will reopen but with reduced class sizes. Restaurants,, bookshops and museums will have to follow certain restrictions as they resume also.

Shopping centres can reopen today in Denmark.

Hotels in Poland to reopen, although foreign visitors will still have to quarantine for two weeks.

In the UK, different measures are being used in each of the home countries. Yesterday the Prime Minister announced the pathway to easing the lockdown and called for those who cannot work from home to go to work, although it was also announced that public transport will be limited and subject to social distancing measures; Scotland renewed its call for people to stay home, Northern Ireland will discuss today its plans with the lockdown there to last until at least 28th May, and in Wales certain restrictions on daily exercise have been eased and garden centres are to reopen. Also, those coming into the country will be required to undergo a 14-day quarantine, except for those coming from France or Ireland, however no start date for these measures were announced. Further detail and clarifications will be made by the Prime Minister today.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced the end of the nationwide "non-working days period" from Tuesday. However, it was not clear if or when people could return to work.

Australian measures continue to be eased and people will be able to visit friends and relatives across the whole country by the end of this week. In the state of Victoria these measures will be relaxed from midnight Tuesday, but restaurants will remain closed. In New South Wales restaurants can reopen from Friday but with a 10-person limit. Queensland begins it’s relaxation of measures from today.

The New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern has announced a further loosening of the country's restrictions, with shops, malls, cafes, restaurants, cinemas and other public spaces allowed to reopen on Thursday with social distancing. Schools can reopen from 18th May, but bars must wait until 21st May. Currently there are only 90 active cases in the country.

Tunisia has recorded no new cases for the first time since early March, health authorities said. The government announced it would relax restrictions on movement and businesses.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 14.50 (GMT) Thursday 7th May

Iceland says it has almost entirely eliminated its outbreak of coronavirus. Only two new cases have been confirmed in the past week and 97% of all infected patients have recovered.

Belgium will allow shops to reopen from Monday as lockdown restrictions are eased. Businesses that do not have contact with the public have already re-started work, however schools, restaurants and bars will remain closed.

Spain's parliament voted to extend the country's state of emergency for another two weeks, to allow the government to control movement as it loosens restrictions.

In the Netherlands a number of restrictions were eased. On 11th May schools and day cares will reopen, with beauty salons and libraries also opening. From 1 June everyone on public transport must wear a face mask, also bars can reopen their terraces but only under a reservation system to ensure a limited number of patrons to allow for social distancing. Restaurants, bars, cinemas, theatres and museums can start operating again, under the same conditions and a maximum of 30 people. As of 1 July, camp sites and churches can open doors again, maximum allowed in restaurants increases to 100.

The UK government is expected to begin discussions today on how to release the lockdown measures. Any details will be announced on Sunday, but it is widely expected that from Monday 11th some easing of restrictions could begin.

New Zealand announced the possibility of re-opening most elements of society as soon as next Wednesday. Under "Level 2" lockdown home gatherings should still be small, but up to 100 people will be able to attend events like weddings. People will be able to go back to work or school, restaurants can re-open with tables spaced apart, and travel around the country will be allowed again. Public facilities can re-open, and sport competitions can resume too. A decision and time frame for this is expected Monday.

In France, the government will today advise on the methods it will use to lift the lockdown restrictions. The country has been divided into green and red regions - those less and more affected - and restrictions will be lifted in different ways, depending on the colour.

International Airlines Group (IAG), which owns British Airways (BA), Aer Lingus and Iberia, says it is planning a "meaningful return" of flights in July at the earliest if lockdown measures are eased, but the company said the plans were "highly uncertain", and subject to various travel restrictions.

The lockdown is to be extended in Scotland, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced, saying it was too soon to make meaningful changes without risking a resurgence of the virus.

Throughout the United States, lockdown restrictions are being lifted in phases, meaning shopping centres are beginning to reopen, although with a reduction in the numbers allowed in.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 14.50 (GMT) Wednesday 6th May

Austria’s Health Minister Rudi Anschober says the first relaxation of its coronavirus lockdown three weeks ago has not led to a new increase in infections. Small shops, garden centres and DIY stores re-opened on 14 April. All shops, hairdressers and beauty salons have been allowed to reopen in the second step of easing restrictions. People are now free to leave their homes, although working from home is still encouraged.

Angela Merkel will hold talks with the heads of the 16 German states today regarding lifting the restrictions further. State leaders will be responsible for the speed in which certain measures are lifted, such as how and when restaurants, cinemas etc. can reopen. However, there are also stipulations that if infections rise above a certain rate, restrictions will have to be imposed again. Large shops will be able to reopen, those in residential care homes will be allowed to have visitors, and two households will be able to meet together in public. Social distancing rules will stay in place until 5 June.

Although the lockdown measure in Spain have begun to be eased, the government will discus extending the State of Emergency measures, although this will meet with opposition.

According to some reports, the UK government has drawn up a three-stage plan to ease the coronavirus lockdown. The measures are expected to be announced Sunday, while the review into the lockdown is due tomorrow. The first phase will involve small shops reopening alongside outdoor workplaces while the second will include large shopping centres reopening and more people encouraged to go to work. The last to reopen will be entertainment venues such as pubs and restaurants. No time frame for these phases was advised.

The Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have agreed to reopen borders to each other from 15th May, although anyone travelling with be subject to a 14-day self-quarantine period.

Scottish First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon announced that the lockdown in Scotland will last for at least another three weeks.

Colombia's mandatory quarantine will be extended by a further two weeks, although some sectors will be allowed to return to work.

Uruguay is beginning to resume activity in public offices and shops in the capital, Montevideo. Those who do not need to work have been asked to remain at home.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 14.55 (GMT) Tuesday 5th May

Finland is going to allow restaurants, public services including libraries and sports facilities to reopen on 1 June. A ban on public meetings will also be eased from a maximum of 10 people to 50 people on the same day, the government said on Monday.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said in his Monday briefing that current data showed that no region of the state is yet ready to reopen. At least six more US states are loosened social distancing measures from Monday. Around half of US states have begun taking steps to reopen, even as health officials warn that the pandemic is not yet under control.

Turkey's coronavirus containment restrictions will be eased by mid-May, including reopening of shopping centres, hair salons and some stores.

In Germany, Bavaria's state premier revealed how the state would ease its lockdown. From Wednesday, people will be able to see family members and playgrounds will reopen. And from next Monday, shops of any size can reopen though the use of face masks and social distancing measures remain in place.

In France, about 30 miles of some of Paris's busiest roads will be bicycles only when the lockdown is eased to limit the numbers using public transport. Another 30 streets will be made pedestrian-only. Mayor Anne Hidalgo says some of the street closures could become permanent.

In the US 1,015 virus deaths were recorded over the past 24 hours, its lowest one-day tally in a month.

New Zealand, which has recorded no new cases for a second day in a row. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern joined Australia's official virus cabinet meeting (via phone) to discuss a potential "travel bubble" between the two nations. However, she also advised that travel from other parts of the world would not be possible for “a long time to come”.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 14.50 (GMT) Monday 4th May

Several countries will lift some of the restrictions imposed by lockdown measures from today.

In Europe, Portugal allows small stores to reopen and will gradually ease the restrictions that were begun in April. Germany will allow stores under 800sq m to reopen and will allow some schools to begin again. Smaller business such as DIY stores and bicycle shops will resume opening in Belgium. In Italy restrictions on movement have been eased allowing people to visit family members and about four million people are expected to go back to work, although face masks will be mandatory at work and on public transport. Spain will also allow smaller business to reopen; some of the country's islands will loosen restrictions even further, as they have not been as badly affected as the mainland. Poland allows hotels, libraries, museums and shops to reopen, but hairdressers, restaurants and playgrounds remain shut.

In Malaysia the majority of businesses will be allowed to resume.

In India, stand-alone shops, but not malls or markets, can reopen.

After seemingly prevented a larger outbreak, Thailand will allow restaurants the resume trading, although they must ensure certain social distancing restrictions.

Jordan has lifted all restrictions on economic activity, allowing all businesses and industries to resume.

In Hong Kong civil servants are returning to the offices after weeks of working from home. The government is also set to relax some social-distancing measures, and gyms and cinemas might be allowed to reopen this week, according to local media.

In order to mitigate the damage to the economy, Nigeria is today lifting some restrictions in Ajuba and Lagos. Shops and markets will be allowed to open until mid-afternoon however public gathering are still banned and an overnight curfew is still in place. Schools remain closed. The government advises this first phase of a six-week process will be reviewed in two weeks, with further easing of restrictions if results show a positive effect.

In South Africa people have been allowed to return to work but must continue to observe distancing, the wearing of masks and washing hands.

Yesterday in New Zealand there were no fatalities and there were no new infections recorded.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 14.54 (GMT) Friday 1st May

The spread of the coronavirus in Denmark has not accelerated since lockdown measures started to be loosened earlier this month. The so-called R0 rate, which shows the average number of infections one person with the virus causes, has increased a little since mid-April but remains below 1. Meanwhile, Germany began easing restrictions at the beginning of last week. It is also seeking to achieve a R0 rate below one.

In early March the German rate was three but by mid-April it was below one. On Monday evening, that rate did rise briefly to one before falling back again. Germany and Austria continue with the easing of lockdown restrictions from today as more shops are permitted to open.

United States: The stay-at-home order in Texas has expired; stores, theatres and restaurants will be allowed to resume business, albeit at limited capacity. Georgia's order has also expired, and the governor is due to decide whether it will be extended. Alabama, Tennessee, West Virginia, Ohio and Idaho will begin phased re-openings from today, though some restrictions will still be in place, like limits on gatherings or certain types of businesses. Florida has extended its stay-at-home order to 4th May, when the governor says most of the state can begin reopening.
UK: On his first briefing appearance since recovering from Coronavirus, PM Boris Johnson claimed that the country was now past the peak of infection. He also announced that comprehensive plan laying out the series of measures to about how the country will be brought out of lockdown will be released next week.
Malaysia: Many businesses will be allowed to reopen, however those that involve a large gathering of employees will remain closed.
Australia: After initially being set for review around 11th May, social distancing restrictions could now be eased next week with the new review date now set as 8th May.
South Africa: Lockdown restrictions are beginning to be eased from today. Some businesses will be permitted to reopen, restaurants can begin to run delivery services and leaving home to exercise will be allowed. However, there is still a ban on alcohol sales and strict overnight curfews are in place.
India: The lock down period has been extended by two weeks. It was originally due to end on 4th May.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 14.54 (GMT) Thursday 30th April

Germany: Germany is extending its travel ban for unnecessary international travel until 14th June. Foreign Minister Heiko Maas says the warning, which had been due to expire 3rd May, is being extended because there has been no change to the danger posed by the coronavirus pandemic. 1,478 new cases were recorded for the previous day, marking the fourth day that new infections went up.

Switzerland: From May 11th all shops, restaurants, museums, and bars will be permitted to reopen. It had already been announced that schools would reopen the same day. The decision was taken as the number of cases and resulting hospitalisations was falling faster than expected. There will still be a number of restrictions in place, including limiting numbers allowed in restaurants and social distancing, the ban on large gatherings will remain in place. At the same time countrywide tracing will begin, with quarantine orders for virus cases and all their contacts.

Russia: The ban on foreign nationals entering the country, not including the specific exemptions has been extended until the Covid-19 pandemic has been contained, but no timeframe was given as to when restrictions may be reviewed.

Australia: Australian Capital Territory (ACT) region has become the first to eliminate the virus, officials say. The ACT includes Canberra, the nation's capital city, and has a population of 426,000 people. Government officials said the last known patients recovered from the virus on Thursday, meaning there were no more known cases. Other Australian jurisdictions are also on their way to reaching zero, with South Australia reporting no new infections for a seventh consecutive day.

South Korea: In February, South Korea had one of the worst outbreaks in Asia outside mainland China, but now local infections have fallen to zero. There is, however, a great deal of caution; the Korean Centre for Disease Control has announced that it is inevitable that this pandemic will return, and they are urging people to keep to a daily routine of staying home if they feel ill, washing their hands, keeping some distance and not gathering in large groups.

Portugal: A detailed plan for easing its lockdown in phases is due to be announced today. It is expected to allow small local shops and hairdressers to reopen from Monday.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

UPDATE AS OF 15.42 (GMT) Wednesday 29th April

A new anti-body test claiming to have an accuracy of 99% has been certified for use across Europe. Abbot, a global diagnostics specialist, has said they are expecting to have millions of the tests in labs across Europe by the end of May.

Spain: An announcement was made regarding a four-phase plan to lift the restrictive lockdown measures. The hope is that a return to what was referred to as a “new normality” by the end of June.

France: Further information on how lockdown restrictions will be eased. The plan will be rolled out in different areas of France, but strict rules will remain in place in regions worst affected by the outbreak. The proposal calls for younger children (kindergarten and elementary school age) to return to school first, with middle schools reopening a week later. Schools reopening for older children will be decided at the end of the month.

Shops and markets will be allowed to reopen, but entertainment venues, bar, cafes and restaurants will remain closed. Retailers will be able to make the wearing of masks a requirement.

Masks will be compulsory on public transport and in schools above kindergarten grades.

The state of emergency in France may be extended until 23rd July which will allow the government to continue restricting movements and businesses.

It was stressed, however, that all these easing of measures is dependant of a drop to 3000 infections or less per day by 11th May and that those who are able to work from home should do so for at least three more weeks.

United States: Governor Andrew Cuomo says some regions of New York State could begin to loosen some restrictions from 15th May, although this would be dependant on meeting certain targets including a consecutive decline in new infections for at least 14 days. Areas where hospitals are at 70% capacity or above will not be included in these plans nor will areas where transmission rates are above 1.1.

New York City will not be reopening at the same time.

Manufacturing and construction will most likely be the first sectors to restart operations as they will be most ready to put precautions in place

Canada: The social distancing measures in Canada appear to be having a positive impact to the point that some provinces are planning for the lifting of restrictions. Quebec plans to reopen schools as early as 4th May with the manufacturing and construction sectors to start again the same day, although there may be continued restrictions in Montreal.

UK: In the first glimpse of what the plan to release lockdown measure in the UK could be, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson advised that the reopening of schools would need to be done in a “phased” way, and would not likely be until the autumn.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

Youcall-it.com Statement 28th April 2020

UPDATE AS OF 15.01 (GMT) Tuesday 28th April

The downward trend continues in the Chinese city of Wuhan, where the outbreak emerged last December. A health official reported that the city now has no remaining Covid-19 cases in its hospitals.

In South Korea, life is also slowly starting to get back to normal. The country’s large churches have re-opened, though worshippers are required to wear masks and keep a distance.

In Italy, restrictions will be eased from 4th May, with people being allowed to visit their relatives in small numbers. Parks will reopen but schools will not restart until September. Italy recorded 260 new deaths on Sunday – its lowest daily figure in more than a month.

In additional to previous reporting the following updates have been received:

Australia: Some states have begun relaxing restrictions, with Queensland set to bring back picnics and car trips, while Western Australia will now allow 10-person gatherings, up from the previous limit of two. New South Wales and Victoria will continue with more restrictive measures until at least 11th May, when a national review is due. The government has directly tied the use of the COVIDSafe app to the idea of Australians resuming normal life as soon as possible.

New Zealand: At midnight, New Zealand will lift some of its nationwide lockdown measures, moving down one level on its alert scale. Overall, there have been fewer than 1,500 cases in New Zealand and around 80% of those have already recovered. The deaths of 19 people have been linked to the virus.

US: Some US states are beginning to lift lockdown orders. Georgia, Oklahoma, Alaska and South Carolina have already allowed some businesses to reopen, while Tennessee and Mississippi will see measures easing on Monday.

Italy: From 4th May, people will be allowed to visit their relatives - only in small numbers, and only wearing masks. People will also be allowed to move around within their regions, parks will reopen, restaurants will do takeaway, funerals can be held again but with a maximum of 15 people and athletes are allowed to resume training. More services like hairdressers and beauty salons will reopen on 1 June. Schools, though, will not restart classes until September.

India: Some of its lockdown rules were relaxed over the weekend, it allowed small local stores to reopen after more than a month.

UK: The UK appears to have passed the peak of the virus, weekend figures show. Both the number of new cases and deaths appear to be decreasing steadily. However, England's deputy chief medical officer, Prof Jonathan Van-Tam, last week warned against ending measures too quickly. The prime minister’s official spokesman says that we could hear more about how the government will judge the UK's ability to “move forward” by the end of the week.

Germany: After beginning to ease lockdown measures last week today it was made mandatory to wear masks outside.

Sri Lanka: The lockdown measure have extended it for another week after a spike in cases after they were due to be lifted from today.

Switzerland: Hairdressers and garden centres have reopened, and students will return to school from 11th May.

Malta: No new cases of the virus reported over the previous 24 hours on Sunday – the first time this has happened in more than six weeks.

Czech Republic: From today, people are legally allowed to leave the Czech Republic and travel to any destination they wish, although there are virtually no flights or trains. Anyone who leaves will need to present a negative Covid certificate on their return, or face 14 days of quarantine. The only outsiders being let in are EU business travellers or university students, also requiring negative Covid certificates or quarantine. The next stage of easing domestic restrictions begins today, with large retail outlets, gyms, libraries and zoos (outdoor spaces only) amongst the latest to open.

UPDATE AS OF 15.01 (GMT) Monday 27th April

The downward trend continues in the Chinese city of Wuhan, where the outbreak emerged last December. A health official reported that the city now has no remaining Covid-19 cases in its hospitals.

In South Korea, life is also slowly starting to get back to normal. The country’s large churches have re-opened, though worshippers are required to wear masks and keep a distance.
In Italy, restrictions will be eased from 4th May, with people being allowed to visit their relatives in small numbers. Parks will reopen but schools will not restart until September. Italy recorded 260 new deaths on Sunday – its lowest daily figure in more than a month.

In additional to previous reporting the following updates have been received:

Australia: Some states have begun relaxing restrictions, with Queensland set to bring back picnics and car trips, while Western Australia will now allow 10-person gatherings, up from the previous limit of two. New South Wales and Victoria will continue with more restrictive measures until at least 11th May, when a national review is due. The government has directly tied the use of the COVIDSafe app to the idea of Australians resuming normal life as soon as possible.
New Zealand: At midnight, New Zealand will lift some of its nationwide lockdown measures, moving down one level on its alert scale. Overall, there have been fewer than 1,500 cases in New Zealand and around 80% of those have already recovered. The deaths of 19 people have been linked to the virus.
US: Some US states are beginning to lift lockdown orders. Georgia, Oklahoma, Alaska and South Carolina have already allowed some businesses to reopen, while Tennessee and Mississippi will see measures easing on Monday.
Italy: From 4th May, people will be allowed to visit their relatives - only in small numbers, and only wearing masks. People will also be allowed to move around within their regions, parks will reopen, restaurants will do takeaway, funerals can be held again but with a maximum of 15 people and athletes are allowed to resume training. More services like hairdressers and beauty salons will reopen on 1 June. Schools, though, will not restart classes until September.
India: Some of its lockdown rules were relaxed over the weekend, it allowed small local stores to reopen after more than a month.
UK: The UK appears to have passed the peak of the virus, weekend figures show. Both the number of new cases and deaths appear to be decreasing steadily. However, England's deputy chief medical officer, Prof Jonathan Van-Tam, last week warned against ending measures too quickly. The prime minister’s official spokesman says that we could hear more about how the government will judge the UK's ability to “move forward” by the end of the week.
Germany: After beginning to ease lockdown measures last week today it was made mandatory to wear masks outside.
Sri Lanka: The lockdown measure have extended it for another week after a spike in cases after they were due to be lifted from today.
Switzerland: Hairdressers and garden centres have reopened, and students will return to school from 11th May.
Malta: No new cases of the virus reported over the previous 24 hours on Sunday – the first time this has happened in more than six weeks.
Czech Republic: From today, people are legally allowed to leave the Czech Republic and travel to any destination they wish, although there are virtually no flights or trains. Anyone who leaves will need to present a negative Covid certificate on their return, or face 14 days of quarantine. The only outsiders being let in are EU business travellers or university students, also requiring negative Covid certificates or quarantine. The next stage of easing domestic restrictions begins today, with large retail outlets, gyms, libraries and zoos (outdoor spaces only) amongst the latest to open.

Further information can be found at

https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

For travel advice:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c

and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

UPDATE AS OF 14.52 (GMT) Tuesday 28th April

Promising news from Oxford University's Jenner Institute. It believes it has produced an effective vaccine, and plans to carry out clinical tests on 6,000 people before the end of May. The Jenner vaccine was tested on six rhesus macaque monkeys at the US National Institutes of Health’s Rocky Mountain Laboratory in Montana last month. The monkeys were exposed to high doses of the virus, and all six remained healthy 28 days later. Monkeys without the vaccine fell sick, according to a New York Times report.

Both Spain and Greece will announce further ways of easing restrictions soon.
Portugal’s government is holding a closed-door meeting with health officials, and has said the discussions are key in any move toward loosening the lockdown
In addition to the previous updates we are reporting the following:
UK: The UK is at "the moment of maximum risk", Prime Minister Boris Johnson said - adding that lockdown rules will remain in place for now.
Scotland: First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has unveiled new guidance by the Scottish government, saying people should cover their faces when they're in enclosed public spaces.
India: A total of 85 districts across more than 20 states have not reported any new infections in the last two weeks, officials said on Monday. The government has also said that five out of eight states in India's northeast have no Covid-19 cases.
Australia: In the past day, Australia recorded just one case of the virus from an unknown source, and 12 cases overall.
Germany: After easing lockdown restrictions officials have warned that the infection rate is increasing - and is now at 1 again. This means 10 infected people will infect another 10 people. Last week, the rate had dropped to 0.7, meaning ten infected would pass the virus to only seven people.
France: Prime Minister Edouard Philippe will lay out how France will slowly exit its lockdown restrictions from 11th May. There will be a debate followed by a vote on the plans, which controversially involve children returning to school against the advice of the national scientific council.
Netherland: After loosening lockdown restrictions the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the Netherlands rose by only 171 to 38,416 Tuesday, with 48 new deaths recorded.

Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

Youcall-it.com Statement 24th April 2020

UPDATE AS OF 13.55 (GMT) Friday 24th April

China again reported no coronavirus deaths for the past day, making it a full week without fatalities.

There have been no reported deaths from Covid-19 in South Korea in the last 24 hours, the first time in a month that has happened.

Some promising news from Spain, where the number of new coronavirus-related deaths has dropped to the lowest daily level in over a month.