After almost two months of complete standstill due to the corona virus, Italy will move on to “Phase 2” tomorrow. This is an important step back to normal. While the government has eased precautionary measures less than the Italians had hoped for after seven weeks of quarantine, there is a little more freedom of movement in the country.
After the epidemic curve has been declining for weeks, Italians are allowed to walk in the parks again tomorrow. Only individual sports, such as jogging, are permitted. Visits to relatives in the vicinity are again permitted, but large family reunions and private celebrations are prohibited. The distance rules still apply in public. The Italians are free to move around in their community, but not to leave the region in which they live.
“Strategically important” companies, especially in industry and construction, can start working again tomorrow. Restaurants may offer out-of-home service. TV series and films are being shot again in Rome. It is estimated that 4.5 million Italians will start work tomorrow. For further openings such as the restart of museums, exhibitions and libraries, Italy has to wait for May 18th. Hairdressers, beauty salons, restaurants and retailers have to wait until June 1st.
