BEIRUT: Lebanon confirmed 292 new coronavirus cases and two deaths Wednesday, bring the total number of infections to 7,413.

Of the new cases, 286 were found among the local population and six among travelers from abroad. Two deaths were recorded due to coronavirus complications, bringing the death toll to 89.

The cases were detected among 6,726 PCR tests administered in the last 24 hours.

Lebanons coronavirus containment measures were thrown into chaos last week by the massive explosion at Beirut Port that led to the resignation of Prime Minister Hassan Diabs government Monday. Beirut over the last week has consistently recorded the highest number of cases in Lebanon, with a total of 51 Wednesday. Baabda followed at 29 cases.

Head of Rafik Hariri University Hosptial Dr. Firass Abiad said that the health care sector is facing formidable challenge, in a series of tweets Wednesday.

Hospitals in Beirut sustained varying degrees of physical damage, few were completely put out of service, he said.

Much needed bed capacity has been lost. Repairs will be costly, considering the financial crisis. Hospitals, already financially stretched, require urgent repairs.

At least 15 medical facilities including three major hospitals sustained structural damage in the blast. A planned weekend lockdown was scrapped in the wake of the blast and tens of thousands have congregated in protests and to help the victims

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