Lebanon reports record high number of new virus cases
Published:Sunday | August 16, 2020 | 6:13 PM
BEIRUT — Lebanon, still grappling with the aftermath of the August 4 blast that killed 180 people and wounded thousands, has registered a record daily number of coronavirus infections, with 439 people contracting the virus and six fatalities.
The new infections bring to 8,881 the total number of people reported infected in the small country of just over 5 million. Some 103 have died because of COVID-19.
The explosion at Beirut’s port was set off when thousands of tons of ammonium nitrate ignited, injuring about 6,000 people and causing widespread damage across the city.
Daily coronavirus cases had already been on the rise, and the explosion made social distancing more difficult for many.
Lebanon’s health sector has been challenged by the pandemic that hit amid a deepening economic crisis.
The blast that hit in Beirut’s center knocked out at least three hospitals in the capital and greatly increased pressure on those still operating.
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