Latest COVID-19 developments in some European countries

Poland to start phase-two of easing of restrictions on May 4 when shopping malls, hotels and some cultural venues will reopen.

Switzerland has announced to further ease its coronavirus-related restrictions from May 11 when shops, cultural and sports institutions, and restaurants will be allowed to open. Meanwhile, events with more than 1,000 people are banned through August.

Germany predicts GDP contraction by a record 6.3 percent as demand for exports plummets and lockdown restrictions weigh on domestic consumption.

Belarus reported 973 new COVID-19 confirmed cases on Wednesday, raising its total to 13,181. Also, 2,072 patients have recovered, while 84 patients with chronic diseases have died from the virus.

In Sweden, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases rose past the 20,000 mark and stood at 20,302 on Wednesday. In addition, 107 new deaths were recorded, putting the nationwide tally at 2,462.

The Netherlands recorded highest daily fatalities in over a week of 145 cases, bringing the country's total deaths to 4,711. So far, the country has recorded 38,802 confirmed cases.

Belgium said on Wednesday that another 170 patients have died, taking the country's death toll to 7,501. It also confirmed 525 new cases of infection in the last 24 hours, bringing the total cases to 47,859