ATHENS, April 28 (Xinhua) -- Greece's Health ministry announced on Tuesday 32 new COVID-19 cases and two new deaths, raising the country's totals to 2,566 and 138, respectively, since the start of the outbreak on Feb. 26.
Currently, 40 people were being treated in intensive care units (ICUs), while 70 have been discharged from ICUs, according to an emailed press release.
Earlier in a televised address to the nation, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis outlined the government's plan for gradual rollback of restrictions starting from May 4.
Greece is under a nationwide lockdown since March 23 in order to control the coronavirus' spread.
"You showed unprecedented responsibility and solidarity... We are coming back, but we remain cautious. Above all we remain safe. It is up to us to make it," he said.
According to the government, as of May 4 people will be allowed to leave their homes but are encouraged to continue observing social distancing and use masks in closed spaces, including mass transport services.
Businesses will be gradually opening to restart the economy. In the first stage, it will be hairstyling shops, bookstores, athletic gear and electronics shops, followed by more retail shops on May 11 and restaurants, cafeterias, shopping malls and a few hotels on June 1.
During May, high school students will gradually return to schools and churches will welcome worshippers, Mitsotakis announced.
On May 18, archaeological sites along with zoos and botanical gardens will open, keeping in compliance safety and hygiene rules, ministers added during a press briefing after the PM's address.
Mitsotakis noted that sports events and culture festivals will most likely not be held this summer, but as of May 4 people will be allowed to go to non-organized beaches in addition to open-air spaces for personal exercise.
In the post-lockdown period, the government suggests people keep avoiding gatherings of more than 10 and unnecessary commute with mass transport services, and continue working from home or in shifts, if possible. Enditem
