At the beginning of the outbreak, Bcharre had zero recorded cases, while the rest of the country’s cities were starting to see increasing numbers of cases. However, the virus travels fast. It only took one person to transmit it to the entire town. Eventually, that is what happened.
A source from Bcharre told The961, “The person who got infected was going often to Beirut for work before the lockdown. His symptoms didn’t show until two weeks later but, by that time, it was too late.” The man had already mixed with the town, unaware of his infection.
Just yesterday, 24 people tested positive. Today, Thursday, April 9th, there are 45 confirmed cases, that’s excluding the people suspected of being infected.
However, Bcharre is currently taking strict measures to stop the spread. The streets are being sterilized and the army has been deployed to isolate it from other towns.
The municipality has issued a firm request for everybody to stay home, and even those tested negative to remain self-isolated for 14 days, and report to doctors if any symptoms show up.
Bcharre’s church bells are ringing in solidarity and spiritual support, and people are putting Bcharre in their prayers.
Supportive tweets from across Lebanon can be found on Twitter, wishing the town well and expressing optimism that it will get through this rough phase.
Get the latest news and updates about the coronavirus outbreak in Lebanon along with a live monitor of cases in Lebanon as well as resources and information to help you guide the outbreak on our dedicated coronavirus page.