Lebanon launches countrywide shutdown, airport closure to combat coronavirus

Lebanon declared a medical state of emergency on Sunday. Information Minister said Lebanon's borders, ports, and airport would shut from March 18 to 29 and Lebanese citizens are obliged to remain at home except for matters of "extreme necessity." The government decisions included the suspension of work at nearly all private companies, granting narrow exceptions for food industries and services.

Health officials have warned that any wider outbreak could severely strain Lebanon's strapped medical resources after a months-long dollar shortage that has strained supplies. Lebanon, which is already hit by a deep financial crisis, said the total number of cases had reached 99. Three people have so far died. to reduce potential exposure, security forces were dispatched to Beirut's seaside areas to separate crowds.