After some media outlets circulated news about a new wave of the coronavirus in Lebanon, the Ministry of Public Health clarified that COVID-19, according to the World Health Organization, has fallen outside the definition of an "international public health emergency." It continues to appear in Lebanon, as in other countries, through waves often linked to increasing tourism and family gatherings.
The ministry's statement noted that Lebanon has recently seen a rise in cases, coinciding with the tourist season and an increase in the number of arrivals to the country. However, most recorded cases have been mild, with no complications requiring hospitalization. The occupancy rates of hospital beds and deaths related to the disease remain low (COVID bed occupancy rate in hospitals is 5%, and the death rate over the last 14 days is 0.4 per 100,000).
The Ministry of Public Health confirmed that it is monitoring the developments of the virus and its variants in collaboration with scientific committees and the World Health Organization. The epidemiological surveillance team continues its work consistently through testing and tracking cases. The ministry will not hesitate to inform the public of any developments or updates in this area.
The ministry reminded citizens of the importance of adopting preventive measures against the disease, particularly the etiquette of coughing and sneezing, handwashing, and wearing masks when necessary (in cases of coughing or in crowded places), especially for the elderly and those with chronic diseases. It also emphasized the importance of getting the COVID vaccine and its role in preventing complications.
The ministry urged media outlets to obtain information from official, credible sources and not to publish any information lacking scientific accuracy. It also warned against using the ministry's name to disseminate inaccurate information for sensational purposes, as this could lead to accountability.
