Can a 2-Week Lockdown Control a COVID-19 Outbreak? A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Lebanese COVID-19 Response
Introduction
With the rise of the novel coronavirus cases and fatalities around the world, researchers were invested in studying not only the therapeutic measures, but also, the preventive ones. As observed in other countries, many governments resorted to the shutdown of all services and closure of all facilities thus isolating people in their homes. Due to the rapidly collapsing local currency and deteriorating Lebanese economy, the local government implemented a two-week lockdown hoping it will reduce the surge in newly diagnosed Corona Virus Disease - 19 (COVID-19) cases without worsening the economic situation.
Method
In this study, we aim to understand the effectiveness of such plans in Lebanon and the contribution of the Lebanese people in its accomplishment. We looked at the numbers in all Lebanese territories over 2 weeks before the lockdown, during the 2-week lockdown (from 16 till 28thNovember 2020) and 2 weeks post lockdown. After collecting the data, we analyzed the mean number of cases and death before, during and after lockdown and by followed the growth factor of cases during this period.
Result
It was shown that for all studied districts, there was a trend in decline of the total number of cases, but the results were not statistically significant to prove that a 2-week lockdown can impact the epidemic.
Conclusion
A short, partial lockdown has no benefit over the growth or reduction in the virus impact or transmission, however, it might have some positive outcomes if implemented for longer periods.