Spain has reported its lowest daily COVID-19 death toll in almost two months, as the nation moves into the latest stage of a gradual lifting of lockdown rules.
The number of fatalities rose by 123 to 26,744 in the 24 hours through Monday, the fewest since March 18 and compared with an increase of 143 on Sunday, according to Health Ministry data. Infections in Europe’s most extensive outbreak rose by 373 to 227,436 after the previous day’s gain of 621. The total number of cases was adjusted to reflect changes in data for the Madrid and Catalonia regions.
Almost half of Spain’s population on Monday began the second phase of the government’s strategy to lift the country’s two-month lockdown, which permits bars and restaurants to operate outdoor areas at 50% capacity and gatherings of as many as 10 people at private residences. The latest relaxation doesn’t include the two main cities of Madrid and Barcelona, where more rigid rules are still maintained.