The health ministry said there were 2086 new cases in the 24-hour period ending Wednesday evening, compared to an increase of 2091 registered a day earlier.
Italy’s overall total of known coronavirus infections now stands at 203,591.
On Wednesday, 323 deaths from the virus were reported, taking Italy’s death toll to 27,682.
Italy is in its eighth week of national lockdown, with some partial easing of restrictions on everyday life slated to take effect next week.
From Monday, Italians will be able to visit relatives as long as they take precautions and under no condition should there be large gatherings or parties.
It will be possible to move from one municipality to another but the ban on travel between different regions of Italy will continue, except for proven work matters, health reasons and extraordinary circumstances.
People will also be able to exercise outdoors without restrictions or police checks (at any distance from home) as long as they follow social distancing of at least one metre.
The government also gave the green light for funerals to have up to 15 people attending, but they can only be close relatives and all of them must wear masks and maintain social distancing.
No other ceremonies or gatherings will be permitted.
On May 18, the reopening of all shops as well as “exhibitions, museums and cultural sites” will be allowed if May 4’s loosening of restrictions prove successful.
The lockdown will continue for bars, restaurants, hairdressers and beauticians until at least June 1.
Schools will remain closed until at least September.
