Italy has announced the decision to extend the lockdown till April 13, despite latest data suggesting that the pace of growth in new cases has slowed down.
"We must not confuse the first positive signals with an ‘all clear’ signal. Data shows that we are on the right path and that the drastic decisions are bearing fruit," Health Minister Roberto Speranza told the upper house Senate.
The new infections came in at 4,053 on Tuesday, with deaths remaining largely steady at over 800 a day.
He added that the "battle [against the virus] is still very long."
So far, the country has recorded more than 105,000 cases and the death toll crossing 12,000.


Trump backs down on Greenland tariffs, says deal framework reached
New Zealand rescuers seek landslide survivors as weather havoc kills two
3 people shot dead in eastern Australia, town in lockdown
Death toll in Karachi mall fire climbs to around 50, official says
Rescuers search for survivors after landslide at New Zealand campsite
