Experts say that the relatively low hospitalization and fatality rates in India suggest the coronavirus pandemic is approaching its next phase — largely manageable local outbreaks.

Although a handful of states are reporting a spurt in infections, for a country of 1.35 billion people with limited health facilities and where the practice of wearing masks and social distancing is falling off, the positive trend, if it holds, will be a respite.

It could also help India keep its economy open without any national lockdown.