France extends nationwide shutdown to May 11

President Macron said that France has seen progress with slowing the spread but that that is no reason to lift the order. The four-week extension will give France the ability to test anyone presenting COVID-19 symptoms, which will allow for better containment of the virus, according to the French leader.

He offered a rough timeline for how the country may reopen, starting with schools in May and ending with restaurants in July. The President also announced a set of measures to support people and businesses in areas affected by the disease.