Newsbrief: Countries begin to reopen as coronavirus slows

by Paul Lambert

Several governments are reopening parts of their countries as the number of new coronavirus cases begins to stabilize. 

New Zealand reopened much of its economy this week, as its number of new cases has dropped dramatically in recent days, according to Deseret News. 

“There is no widespread community transmission in New Zealand,” Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said. “We have won that battle. But we must remain vigilant if we are to keep it that way.”

(Photo: Associated Press)

Businesses allowed to re-open include essential services and companies that can exchange goods without contact. 

Some businesses will not be able to open yet, including public gyms and massage parlors. 

Workers will have to stay at least three feet apart and are still encouraged to work from home. 

Italy does not appear to be too far behind. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced this week that starting May 4, parks, building sites and factories will reopen, according to the BBC. 

“If we do not respect the precautions, the curve will go up, the deaths will increase, and we will have irreversible damage to our economy,” Conte said. 

While there are some restrictions being lifted, Conte maintained that social distancing measures will have to continue for months to come. 

Finally, South Korea is considering opening its schools at some point in May, according to the Korea Herald.

“We cannot compromise children’s safety for anything, but we cannot confine students to their homes until the end of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Prime Minister Chung Sye-Kyun said. 

As of now, all South Korean students are taking online classes at home. 

Paul Lambert is wishing everyone the best of health in this time of crisis. He wants everyone to take all precautions to stop the spread of the coronavirus.