Cubans allowed on beaches after slow virus spread

With government restrictions easing and a heatwave sweeping the island, thousands of Cubans are packing the beaches, carousing without masks on the sand and in the water. But after closing down for over three months, infection rates remain extremely low, just a handful in Havana Province and none in 14 provinces on the rest of the island, suggesting Cuba has successfully dealt with the pandemic up until now.

Just four new COVID-19 cases were reported in the Havana area on Tuesday, adding to the 2,432 cases since the pandemic began in March.87 people have died. The numbers, say health officials, show the country must continue imposing restrictions and maintain vigilance.But officials believe the island can continue its phased openings, leading to a final phase later this year with a return to international tourism and commercial activity, with some rules to avoid a new outbreak.

Currently Havana is in phase one, allowing some restaurants and businesses to re-open to the public under restrictions, and some public services to resume.Tourists will be allowed to visit the offshore keys, and the famed beaches of Varadero will be open to visitors.

Most Cubans welcome the lifting of what had been a broad quarantine that allowed for little activity, even though some remain wary of the pandemic.Officials say they are confident the island has weathered the worst of the pandemic for now, but remain concerned about potential spikes in infection as the country continues the process of returning to normality.

(Image Credit: AP)