Rome, Oct 3, 2020, SPA -- Italy reported 2,844 new cases of the novel coronavirus, in the past 24 hours on Saturday, confirming a worrying upward trend in infections, according to dpa. Daily infection numbers are at the highest level since late April. Saturday's figure - up from around 2,500 on the two previous days - brings the total number of infections to 322,751. Italy's death toll rose by 27 to 35,968. The rise in infections comes after weeks during which Italy seemed to be managing the outbreak more successfully than many other European countries. The government in Rome is expected to announce new measures to contain the virus in the coming days, including extending a national state of emergency. This is currently due to expire on October 15, but is expected to run through to January 31. The authorities are also considering making face masks compulsory outdoors. The rule is already in force in several regions, including Lazio, the region including Rome. --SPA 21:17 LOCAL TIME 18:17 GMT 0018 www.spa.gov.sa/w1422482