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ROME, May 4-- The coronavirus pandemic has claimed over 29,000 lives in Italy, bringing the total number of infections, fatalities and recoveries to 211,938 as of Monday, according to the latest data released by the country's Civil Protection Department. The death toll on Monday was 195, bringing the nationwide fatalities to 29,079 since the pandemic first broke out in the northern Lombardy region. Total active infections stood at 99,980, with a decrease of 199 cases compared to the previous day. Monday saw 1,221 new coronavirus infections and 1,225 additional recoveries compared to Sunday, bringing the nationwide totals to 211,938 and 82,879, respectively. Of those infected, 1,479 are in intensive care -- down by 22 compared to Sunday, and 16,823 are hospitalized in normal wards -- down by 419. The remaining 81,678 people, or 81.7 percent of those who tested positive, are in isolation at home. LOCKDOWN EASED Italians enjoyed more liberties on Monday, as some restrictions on productive activities and personal movements were relaxed for the first time after almost eight weeks. Overall, some 4.4 million people went back to work, adding to those employed in essential economic sectors -- such as food industry, supermarkets, and transports -- who never stopped during the lockdown that had entered into force on March 10. Companies in manufacturing, construction, and wholesale sectors could resume work, provided they ensured strict compliance with workplace safety protocols. | 
