South Korea, the first nation outside China to be largely affected by the deadly Coronavirus, has extended its lockdown by another 16 days. However, it has provided easing of restrictions.
Amongst the measures announced, was the opening of religious places like churches. This was a surprising move on the government’s side, as it was a church event that had led to a large number of cases in the country.
Sporting events too were permitted without gathering an audience.
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Prime Minister Chung Sye Kyun in a meeting with government officials said that a balance had to be maintained. She said: “If we can manage a stable management at the current level, we will shift to ‘routine social distancing’ from May 6”.
She also added that: “It is safest to maintain the intensive social distancing, but it isn’t easy realistically. We need to find a middle ground”.
The health authorities have pointed out that while this may permit the reopening of the economy, one has to guard against a resurgence in the number of cases.
This decision has been taken after only eight positive cases were confirmed on Sunday.
Elsewhere in the world, Norway has decided to prepare the reopening of pre-schools after being shut for more than a month. This has been done with the view that fewer numbers of cases were reported amongst infants.
President Trump’s plan to lift the lockdown in a three phased manner has run into opposition as many state Governors have opposed the plan.
Down Under, New Zealand too has extended the period of lockdown.