Ninety UNIFIL peacekeepers have tested positive for COVID-19 Coronavirus.
The peacekeepers who have tested positive, 88 of them from the same contingent and two from another troop contributing country are in complete isolation and all the precautionary measures have been followed to prevent the further spread of the virus.
Only four peacekeepers presented some symptoms while the others were tested positive to the virus thanks to the strict contact tracing measures that the Mission has put in place from the very beginning.
As per our medical standard procedures, they have been taken to a specific area within UNIFIL, which is equipped for COVID-19 cases.
We have undertaken robust contact tracing, and applied a thorough regime of testing and isolation.
UNIFIL is taking very strict precautionary measures with all its personnel, military and civilian staff inside and outside the bases, following all standard protocols including quarantine and isolation in line with WHO and Lebanese Government guidelines.
In relation to our staffing, we have reviewed the roles of all UNIFIL civilian staff and are implementing alternative measures, including “working from home.”
All UNIFIL activities in the implementation of its mandate in accordance with Security Council resolution 1701 are unaffected. The situation in the Mission’s area of operations and along the Blue Line remains calm and stable.
We are in touch with all the relevant Lebanese authorities and with UNHQ in New York.