By AAP 22 Apr 2020 09:51

Spain is aiming to begin winding down its coronavirus lockdown in the second half of May, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez says, though restrictions could return if the epidemic worsens again in one of the worst-hit nations.

With the world's second most infections, more than 200,000, and Europe's second highest death toll, 21,282, Spain has imposed one of the severest lockdowns, including a controversial bar on children leaving homes even for walks.

It has taken a few tentative easing steps, including allowing some workers to return from last week and giving permission for children to go outside from next weekend, but most restrictions remain in force.

With the epidemic seemingly having passed its peak, measures will be eased slowly and gradually to ensure safety, Sanchez said at a parliamentary session where he will ask lawmakers to extend the state of emergency until May 9.

"We will be going back-and-forth depending on how the pandemic evolves," he said.

A man walks his pet in Zahara de la Sierra, Spain. Source: Juan Carlos Toro/Getty

A sharp slowdown in infections has Spaniards optimistic their nightmare may be easing, and officials are turning their attention to restarting the flagging economy.</p>