Italy lockdown likely extended to mid-April amid continued COVID-19 cases

Italy's nationwide lockdown, initially set to end on April 3, is expected to be extended until at least mid-April due to a lack of decisive decline in new coronavirus cases.

The Lombardy region, the hardest-hit area, has reported nearly 6,000 deaths and 39,415 cases.

Nationally, Italy has the highest death toll globally with 9,134 deaths and 97,689 infections as of Monday.

The national doctors' association reported 11 more doctor deaths on Monday, bringing the total to 61, many of whom were general practitioners in Lombardy.

While the lockdown is likely to be extended, there are considerations to ease restrictions on industrial activities, though schools and universities will remain closed.

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte is urging the European Union to issue a 'recovery bond' to finance the response and stimulate the European economy.

Concerns exist about potential social unrest in Italy's southern regions if the epidemic spreads there.