Spain recorded fewer fatalities from the coronavirus as about half the country’s population awaits a further easing of lockdown restrictions starting Monday.

The number of deaths in the last 24 hours was 143, the lowest tally since March 18, versus 179 the previous day, according to Health Ministry data. The number of new cases rose by 621, slightly more than 604 the previous day.

The government has authorized a further partial easing of restrictions from Monday for areas of the country where about half its population lives as health officials make further progress in containing the virus.

Under the more relaxed rules, hotels and smaller shops can reopen while bars and cafes will be able to offer service to limited groups of customers sitting at outside tables. The easing of the rules so far doesn’t apply to major cities including Madrid and Barcelona.

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