BEIRUT – Progressive Socialist Party MP Bilal Abdallah (Chouf) called for authorities on Wednesday to implement a full lockdown for two weeks ahead of New Year's Eve in order to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Here’s what we know:

    • In a tweet, Abdallah said his suggestion comes in light of the current struggles of the health sector in Lebanon, which “lacks human and material resources.”

    • Abdallah also brought up the matter of the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the country, and the general public’s lack of vigilance in halting the virus’ spread.

    • During last year’s holiday season, the government decided to open the country, allowing for bars, restaurants and other venues to host celebrations, which resulted in a huge surge in cases of the virus and eventual months-long lockdown.

    • COVID-19 cases reached 2,280 on Tuesday, while 323 people were in ICU units.