Libya’s National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) on Friday, reported a newly confirmed COVID-19 case. This brings the country’s total tally to 72, with 31 active cases under medical observation, 38 successful recoveries, and 3 deaths.
The Center said in a statement that it had received 238 suspected samples, one of which tested positive for the virus. The case is believed to have come from a recently repatriated citizen.
On the 17th of May, the Government of National Accord (GNA) renewed its 12 hour curfew for a further 10 days. It has taken a number of stringent measures including banning public gatherings, closing down stores, cafes, restaurants, mosques, as well as its borders to contain the spread of COVID-19.
The head of the NCDC, Dr. Badr Al-Din Al-Najjar, announced that the Center was conducting a community-based epidemiological survey to estimate the prevalence of COVID-19 in the country.
Several Arab countries have tightened restrictions on movement and travel to curb the spread of the virus. Trillions of dollars have been pledged in economic stimulus packages around the world to reduce the economic repercussions of the crisis.