Portugal prepares for reopening after 2-month lockdown

Lisbon, Mar 14 (efe-epa).- Portugal is preparing to gradually reopen from Monday with a partial return of face-to-face classes and a resumption of business activity after a two-month lockdown imposed to control a surge in the pandemic.

The easing of the strict measures in place since 15 January comes amid a drastic decrease in the number of coronavirus cases. Hospitalization and death rates are also at their lowest since October.

The improving situation in the Atlantic country has prompted increased mobility in the population despite restrictions remaining in place.

In the capital Lisbon, many people took advantage of the good weather last weekend to go for a stroll, although a large part of the business sector remained closed and restaurants can only offer deliveries and take away services.

From Monday, businesses such as bookstores, hairdressers, real estate agents and tattoo and piercing shops are permitted to resume activity.

Restaurants, however, will have to wait their turn to fully resume activities although the sale of takeaway drinks will be allowed.

Children up to nine years old will go back to school, according to the government’s plans. This will be accompanied by a campaign launching Tuesday that aims carry out 600,000 tests among teachers and staff members.

Portugal has reported 813,716 Covid-19 cases and 16,669 deaths since the pandemic broke out. EFE-EPA

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