Mexico is considering reopening some portions of the country by the middle of May, despite the rising number of confirmed COVID-19 cases and fatalities. Hugo Lopez-Gatell, the Deputy Health Minister, announced on Monday that "the country could enter the third phase in a matter of days." 

This means that the infectious illness will start to spread from one city to another rapidly. Additionally, the official also explained that this is the time when the healthcare system is going to be pushed to its limit, not to mention, even fall as there is no adequate equipment to treat the patients.

More so, health professionals are apprehensive about getting infected in the middle of protective equipment shortage. Some nurses and doctors in regions such as Coahuila for one have already contracted the COVID-19.

Because of the rise in COVID-19 cases, doctors and nurses in this country are experiencing attacks as people start to panic. Several healthcare professionals have been physically attacked by "conspiracy theorists" who don't believe in the virus and by those who are frustrated with the health system, too.

Wearing of Scrubs Outside Discouraged

Currently, the Department of Public Safety is discouraging the health workers from wearing their scrubs when going out of the hospital. The department has stationed too, the National Guard outside numerous hospitals across the nation.

While the health officials are worried about what this "phase three" could mean for the industry, Mexicans fear the outcome economy wise. Relatively, according to the Department of Labor, at least "350,000 jobs" in this country have been lost already.

Presently, Mexico is experiencing "phase two." Meaning, the only open establishments are those that offer essential products and services. Schools, as well as the significant events, have all been canceled, and there is a recommendation from the federal government for everyone to practice social distancing.

Nevertheless, despite the impending threat of "phase three," the Mexican government announced on Thursday, it could start to reopen municipalities where no confirmed COVID-19 cases have been reported.

Meanwhile, some people, according to reports, may go back to school and work as soon as May 17. And, for the pregnant and the elderly, as well as the areas with confirmed COVID-19 cases, they are expected to live a normal life until at least early June.

Public Places Closed During 'Phase Two'

To reduce until stop the spread of COVID-19 during this second phase, the federal government has shut down some public places, including beaches. More so, it is considering restricting the ability of people to travel through the use of traffic stops.

Moreover, in several cities, which include Queretaro, located in central Mexico, the local government there is establishing stricter and more localized recommendations. For instance, people are mandated to wear face masks when they go to certain places like the crockery stores.

And finally, across Mexico, there are 8,772 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 712 deaths recorded. "Phase Three" is expected to start while there are thousands of cases registered and reported. However, it remains unclear at what exact figure it will be activated.

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