TUNIS, TUNISIA

No coronavirus cases and virus-linked deaths have been recorded in Tunisia for the fourth day in a row, the Health Ministry said on Thursday.

The total number of cases stands at 1,032, including 45 deaths, and 759 recoveries -- 75% of the total infections, the ministry said.

The North African country has registered a constant recovery since the first COVID-19 case on March 2.

Tunisia imposed a lockdown on March 22 as part of measures to stem the spread of the virus. But like many other states, it began easing the lockdown from May 4 as daily numbers have shown a downward trend.

It has shortened its night curfew to 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. instead of 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. A range of shops and markets have also reopened.

Tunisia will allow reopening of large commercial centers, private hospitals, weekly bazaars and livestock markets as of Friday, authorities said.

The country will also lift stay-at-home orders for those over the age of 65 and under the age of 15 starting from Friday.

Restrictions on movement including the closure of schools, mosques and restaurants, however, are still in place.

*Writing by Zehra Nur Duz in Ankara