14 Dec 2020 | 09:29 PM UTC
Lebanon: Authorities ease coronavirus disease-related restrictions from Dec. 13 /update 38
Lebanon shortens nationwide nightly curfew to 2330-0500 and eases COVID-19-related business and gathering restrictions from Dec. 13.
Event
Authorities in Lebanon eased several coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-related restrictions nationwide from Dec. 13. The nightly curfew has been shortened to 2330-0500 until further notice; the curfew was previously in effect between the hours of 2300-0500. Furthermore, businesses are permitted to remain open until 2230 instead of 2200. Nightclubs, bars, and pubs are permitted to operate at 50-percent capacity; however, dancing is prohibited. Social gatherings, including weddings and funerals, are allowed both indoors and outdoors. Indoor gatherings are capped at 25 percent of the venue's capacity, with outdoor gatherings limited to 50-percent capacity; the total number of attendees may not exceed 100 people. Authorities previously lifted vehicular traffic restrictions, permitted restaurants to reopen at 50-percent capacity, and resumed some in-person classes at schools.
Lebanon’s state of medical emergency has been extended until March 31, 2021. The state of emergency grants the government broad powers to implement preventative measures such as curfews and travel restrictions to combat COVID-19. Facemasks are mandatory in public. Violations of the country's social-distancing and safety guidelines are punishable by fines.
Commercial flights have resumed at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY), albeit at significantly reduced capacity. Travelers arriving at BEY must produce proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test before entering the country. Travelers from countries with high infection rates must undergo 24 to 48 hours of quarantine in designated hotels until they receive their test results. Nonresidents traveling to Lebanon are required to have a valid health insurance policy for the duration of their stays. Public transportation has resumed operating nationwide, albeit with social-distancing measures and passenger limits in place.
Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.
Exercise basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.
