Lebanon, Algeria extend lockdown over pandemic

BEIRUT/ALGIERS

Authorities in Lebanon and Algeria on Tuesday extended preventive measures to stem the spread of coronavirus.

In Lebanon, a total lockdown was imposed for four days as of Wednesday evening, according to a statement issued by the presidency.

Lebanese authorities have so far confirmed 870 coronavirus cases including 26 deaths and 234 recoveries.

In Algeria, the government decided to extend the country's lockdown for additional 15 days, Prime Minister Abdelaziz Djerad said.

At least 5,891 coronavirus cases were confirmed in Algeria including 507 fatalities and 2,841 recoveries.

After originating in China last December, COVID-19 has spread to at least 187 countries and regions. Europe and the US are currently the worst-hit regions.

The pandemic has killed over 286,300 worldwide, with total infections more than 4.17 million, while recoveries exceeded 1.46 million, according to figures compiled by the US’ Johns Hopkins University.

Writing by Mahmoud Barakat