Lebanon Warns Iqlim Kharoub Residents From Contact With COVID-19 Patients

Arab World

May 26th, 6:20am

Beirut - Asharq Al-Awsat

An aerial view shows the Lebanese capital Beirut's Martyrs Square almost deserted on March 26. AFP

A Lebanese deputy warned on Monday that the country would be at great risk if residents do not abide by the precautionary measures to contain the spread of coronavirus. “Things are starting to get out of control. If we are not aware of the situation and respect precautionary measures, unfortunately, every house, village, or town will be a threat,” said MP Bilal Abdullah, who represents the Iqlim El-Kharroub region. A major spike in COVID-19 infections was witnessed last week in the town of Mazboud, in Iqlim al-Kharroub. “Unfortunately, there are a lot of people, particularly those who are in contact with the infected, who are not quarantined in the appropriate condition,” Abdullah said. He uncovered the registry of new COVID-19 infections in the Iqlim. “Things are starting to get out of our control. This is what is happening in Mazboud, Barja, Chehime, and Katarmaya,” he said. Last Friday, the municipality of Mazboud had declared a state of emergency over an increase in the number of coronavirus infections. The Health Ministry said last week that the majority of the new cases recorded in the country are among residents who had come in contact with infected individuals. On Monday, the Lebanese Health Ministry had reported only five infections with the COVID-19, bringing the country’s total number of cases to 1,119. It said no fatalities were reported in the country during the past 24 hours, leaving the toll at 26. Last week, the Lebanese government had extended lockdown measures until June 7 after the country witnessed a spike in the number of infected people with 63 cases confirmed Thursday and a further 62 registered Friday. Meanwhile, Health Minister Hamad Hassan announced Monday via his Twitter account that a million masks will be distributed for free, in cooperation between the Health Ministry and the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities. “A mask and safe distancing are the components for a conscious return journey,” Hassan said.

from Asharq AL-awsat https://english.aawsat.com/home/article/2302401/lebanon-warns-iqlim-kharoub-residents-contact-covid-19-patients