Italy’s coronavirus cases top 200,000, death toll at 27,359

ITALY The coronavirus pandemic has claimed 27,359 lives in locked-down Italy, bringing the total number of infections, fatalities and recoveries to 201,505 as of Tuesday, according to the latest data released by the country’s Civil Protection Department. The death toll on Tuesday was 382, bringing the total to 27,359 fatalities since the pandemic first broke out in the northern Lombardy region. The department reported 2,091 new infections and 2,317 more recoveries compared to Monday, bringing the nationwide totals to 105,205 and 68,941, respectively. Of those infected, 1,863 are in intensive care down by 93 compared to Monday, and 19,723 are hospitalized in normal wards down by 630. The rest, or 79 percent of those who tested positive, are in isolation at home. The death toll from the coronavirus among Italy’s doctors rose to 152 as of Tuesday, said the National Federation of Orders of Surgeons and Dentists (FNOMCeO). The toll includes retired doctors who have returned to the front line in the virus battle. Italy’s National Health Institute (ISS) said 20,618 healthcare workers have been infected as of Monday, accounting for about 10 percent of the country’s total accumulated infections.

Italy entered into a national lockdown on March 10 to contain the pandemic. The lockdown, expected to last until May 3, will be followed by a socalled “Phase Two,” which involves the gradual resumption of social, economic and productive activities. Beginning May 4, the manufacturing, construction, and wholesale sectors can resume work. Following them are retailers, museums, galleries, and libraries on May 18, and bars, restaurants, hairdressers and beauty salons on June 1. All businesses will have to follow rigorous workplace safety protocols.

(Xinhua)