As the world plans to enter the fifth month of coronavirus pandemic with no vaccine or end in sight, governments are already devising measures for lockdown exit. COVID-19 pandemic has affected more than 200 countries and territories around the world, with over 2.2 million confirmed cases and more than 150,000 deaths. A recent model cited by the White House predicts the pandemic may ‘fade away’ next month, but experts doubt the assumption.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says more than 60 candidate vaccines are now in the development stage. Several are at early clinical trials. Not to taking chances in persistent lockdown, countries are already looking ahead for an exit plan and re-opening of economies. US President Donald Trump said normal activities will gradually return in places seeing a decrease in COVID-19 cases
Here’s a look at lockdown exit plans by nations:
Exit plans in process
Lockdown extended until 11 May, after which crèches and schools to reopen progressively. Bars, restaurants, cinemas to stay closed; large public gatherings banned until at least mid-July
Switzerland
A three-step approach to ease out of coronavirus. Hospital, Hairdressing salons, massage practices and cosmetic studios to reopen first.
Finland
Lifted travel in and out of the Helsinki region April 15, but all other restrictions to remain in place until further notice.
Czech Republic
Five-stage plan to start on 20 April with open-air markets and workshops and end on 8 June. Czechs may now also travel abroad providing they undergo two-week quarantine on returning
Norway
Kindergartens to reopen and some health specialists to return to work from 20 April. The partial reopening of high schools and universities, hair, massage and beauty salons from 27 April
Germany
There is the partial reopening of schools announced for 4 May. Hairdressers may reopen then if they take precautions, followed by other smaller shops, bookshops, bike stores and car dealerships from 11 May
Exit plans announced
Italy
Bookshops, laundries, stationers, children’s clothes stores reopened in some regions; forestry workers and IT manufacturers back at work. Full lockdown set to end 4 May
Spain
Some factories and construction workers back at work but most shops and services remain closed and office staff still working from home. Lockdown set to end 27 April.
Austria
Public parks, small shops, DIY and gardening supply stores reopened with strict distancing rules and masks. If the virus is under control, all stores will reopen on 2 May, restaurants in mid-May.
Denmark
Daycare centres and primary schools have reopened on 15 April. Restaurants and cafes closed and gatherings of more than 10 people banned until 10 May. Larger gatherings banned until August.
No plans yet
UK
UK lockdown continues and no plan for exit yet.
Africa to gradually ease lockdown
Ghana
President Nana Akufo Addo lifted a partial lockdown on April 19.
South Africa
President Cyril Ramaphosa said the country will use a ‘risk-adjusted approach’ for the phased re-opening of South Africa’s economy after lockdown.
Nigeria
Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari to take a crucial decision on lockdown next week.
