The Director General of Rafik Hariri Hospital, Dr. Firas Abiad, warned via “Twitter” that “Covid-19 cases are soaring up in several countries, not only in Lebanon. This has resulted from several reasons, including new, more infectious virus variants, early easing of lockdown measures and slow vaccination process. What is happening in Brazil is worthwhile, as the healthcare system there is almost collapsing. ”
“At the same time that we are easing measures, the hospitals are suffering. More doctors and nurses are emigrating. A drop in medical supplies imports is being witnessed due to the dollar shortage. A more contagious strain will result in receiving more patients, which could overwhelm hospitals,” he added.
“With all the crises coinciding in Lebanon, the Coronavirus may not be the top concern of everyone. Can the restrictions be eased, the borders kept open, the new strain avoided, and the vaccination increased? This may be difficult to achieve. Let’s hope for the best, but at the same time, we must continue to put efforts and take all necessary precautions”, Abiad concluded.