Italy eases lockdown but restrictions remain amid confusion

Italy is cautiously easing its strict coronavirus lockdown, but confusion and lingering restrictions have dampened public optimism as the country continues to grapple with the pandemic.

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte emphasized that 'phase 2' of the lockdown should not be seen as a return to normalcy, as many restrictions will remain in place.

Most shops will remain closed until May 18, while restaurants and bars can only offer take-aways, and schools, cinemas, theatres, museums, and hairdressers will stay closed for now.

Parks will reopen on Monday, allowing outdoor activities with social distancing, and masks will be mandatory in closed spaces at a subsidized cost.

Italy has recorded nearly 29,000 deaths from COVID-19, the world's second-highest toll after the United States.

The government has slowed the easing of restrictions due to a slower-than-expected decline in daily fatalities and new infections.

Confusion persists over which activities are permitted, with unclear guidelines on visiting relatives and friends, leading to social media backlash and criticism of the government's communication.

Regional authorities have threatened to flout central government rules and implement their own reopening plans.

The government plans to conduct 5 million rapid tests and 150,000 blood tests to assess the spread of the virus and antibody prevalence.

A 55-billion euro stimulus package will include financial support for workers, seasonal and domestic workers, and family vouchers for babysitters.