Europeans emerge from lockdown as businesses reopen

Millions of Europeans have begun emerging from strict coronavirus lockdowns, with Italy leading the way as businesses gradually reopen.

Globally, over 3.5 million people have been infected and approximately 250,000 have died, with the United States having the highest death toll.

Italy, the second-hardest hit country, is allowing construction and factory work to resume for about 4.5 million people, though restaurants are limited to takeaways and bars remain closed.

In the United States, Ohio and other states are easing curbs on businesses, with about half of states having partially reopened economies over the weekend.

US President Donald Trump warned the national death toll could rise as high as 100,000.

Spain, Portugal, Nigeria, India, Malaysia, Israel and Lebanon are also among countries lifting some restrictions.

While the daily rate of new COVID-19 cases worldwide has decreased, concerns about a potential second wave of infections loom as governments attempt to restart their economies.