1.10 How should we describe the current #COVID19 situation in ? Two words, Very worrisome. Below is a thread explaining why and providing thoughts on moving forward:

2.10 Number of daily new cases continue rising. This week will probably see the largest weekly increase (200+) since the start of the pandemic. The rise is due to both, local spread and an influx of +ve travelers. Daily testing set a record (4260), 1.55% were +ve(higher than b4).

3.10 However, the rise in cases is genuine and not merely the result of better detection. There is a rise in the number and size of clusters, and in the distribution as the spreads to various locations (1st case in Hasbia), including densely populated areas (Ghbayri) and camps

4.10 Three important observations. First, people are in full “lockdown fatigue” mode and are not following safety measures. Parties and crowded dinners (Faria) or minimal distancing at places of worship will not help contain the . A new cluster started at a funeral (20+ cases).

5.10 Second, hospitals are suffering. Delayed payments, mounting costs, dwindling supplies and power shortages all pose serious challenges. 4 hospitals reported infections in healthcare staff in the last few days. All this offsets the preparedness achieved over the past months.

6.10 Third, the airport did not open as planned. A preflight -ve PCR limited the inflight of +ve cases, but does not apply to all flights. Digital apps to follow up on arrivals have not worked well. Some passengers did not adhere to the required isolation and spread the (Sour).

7.10 In short, clouds are gathering and we might be heading into a storm. If we do, what is the current capacity of our hospitals considering recent events? Will we be forced into another lockdown? Can we still change course and avoid a surge? We can, but it will not be easy.

8.10 Authorities have to do a better job at enforcing safety measures and holding businesses and individuals accountable including taking legal action or maybe closing businesses. Also needed is an incessant awareness media campaign, and full support to the healthcare sector.

9.10 People have to change their behavior. Laxity is noted even amongst the allegedly educated, or by hospital staff who should know better. Compliance with wearing face mask has dropped to 25%. Lamenting a failed state is no excuse for irresponsible individual conduct.

10.10 Finally, authorities and individuals claim they dread the lockdown, but seem to be driving hard straight into it. does not have the capacity to work through a full surge. #Covid19 has a clear lesson to teach us: Freedom to work and live has a price, will we comply?