A new wave of coronavirus is sweeping through Lebanon, as in all countries, with a significant rise in infections. This is an old issue that has resurfaced, as the pandemic is not over despite the substantial drop in cases that we previously witnessed. The situation is still under control, according to the Health Minister in the caretaker government, Firas Abiad, who noted an increase in the number of cases in hospitals. Can they handle a new wave, especially since the numbers are rising in a concerning and large manner? And what is the cost of hospitalization for an infected person?
Sleiman Haroun, the head of private hospitals, emphasized in an interview with MTV that caution is necessary, and it cannot be said that there is no cause for concern, as many unvaccinated individuals are putting themselves at significant risk. He mentioned that so far, the symptoms of those infected are mild and do not require hospitalization, particularly in intensive care units, but the number of infections is rising rapidly. He observed that the rate of infection among close contacts is very high, indicating that the virus spreads quickly. He urges adherence to preventive measures and warns against underestimating the disease, stating, "Do not take it lightly."
Regarding hospitals' capacity to accommodate the numbers, especially since most hospitals have closed their COVID-19 departments, Haroun confirmed, "If the numbers remain as they are today, there is no problem for the hospitals; we are able to accommodate them. However, if previous waves occur again, it is certain that we will not be able to handle them." On the cost aspect, he stated, "The cost of hospitalization for a coronavirus patient is no less than 10 million Lebanese pounds per day; hence, we warn that there is no longer any support for medicine and oxygen, and the costs are high."
