War-torn Libya reports first coronavirus case

Libya has reported its first case of vel coronavirus, a particular source of concern in rth African country where civil war has bly degred public healthcare system. Libya has been mired in chaos since 2011 overthrow of longtime dictator Moamer Khafi and is divided between Tripoli-based Government of National Unity (GNA) and forces loyal to eastern-based military strongman Khalifa Haftar.

health minister of UN-recognised GNA late Tuesday reported "a first contamination with coronavirus in Libya," without giving details of case.

" necessary measures have been taken to treat" patient, minister, Ehmed Ben Omar, said in a brief online statement.

Breddine al-Najar, director of National Centre for Disease Control, said patient h returned from Saudi Arabia via Tunisia a week ago.

Even before this first case was detected, both rival ministrations h launched preventive measures against COVID-19 pandemic, including night-time curfews and closure of restaurants and cafes.

But y have contined to fight in main battleground south of capital, where sound of heavy bombardment was heard on Tuesday.

risk posed by pandemic is particularly worrying in Libya, where security and humanitarian situation have deteriorated furr since Haftar launched an offensive against Tripoli almost a year ago.

fighting has killed more than 1,000 people and displaced 150,000.

A fragile truce entered into force on January 12, but fighting has continued with each side blaming or.

Days ago, UN chief Antonio Guterres urged both GNA and Haftar forces to observe a truce, citing " alrey dire humanitarian situation in Libya and possible impact of COVID-19 pandemic".

(Picture Credit: representative im/AP)