The Director General of Rafik Hariri University Hospital, Dr. Firas Al-Abyad, revealed that Australia’s population is about four times that of Lebanon, and COVID-19 deaths in Lebanon are approximately four times those in Australia, as the two countries follow different COVID strategies. Australia aims for eradication (zero COVID), while Lebanon follows a mitigation policy (coexisting with the virus).
Al-Abyad added that achieving zero COVID requires a rapid reduction of COVID numbers to zero through strict and prolonged lockdowns accompanied by financial support. After that, further spread of the virus is avoided through extensive and rapid testing, tracking, and isolation measures, as well as prompt action to contain any new outbreaks of the disease. Therefore, achieving "zero COVID" is not an easy task. He stated in a series of tweets on Twitter: "This strategy has many advantages. It reduces the number of deaths and chronic illnesses resulting from COVID infection, allows for a near-normal economic movement, and opens schools with fewer repeated lockdowns. Travel will be easier for residents of zero COVID countries. Access to vaccines will also be facilitated." He noted that “adopting this strategy requires a significant initial investment. But once the results mentioned above are achieved, people will find it worthwhile. Just look at the acceptance and satisfaction rates with government policies in zero COVID countries. Currently, discussions are underway to adopt it in Germany, Canada, and others.”
He confirmed that "the strategy of mitigating the effects of the infection and coexisting with the virus has not yielded the desired results," pointing out that "the cycles of opening and closing in Lebanon have been accompanied by an increase in deaths and economic deterioration. Other countries have followed a different path and achieved what we hope to reach. Isn't that a lesson we should learn from?"
Al-Abyad concluded: "Once these gains are achieved, they must then be maintained. This will require a high level of community participation, and communication with the public and building trust will be essential factors in maintaining this effective participation. Let us remember that the alternative to this strategy comes at a high cost, known to all who have experienced the difficulties of lockdown measures."
