DAMASCUS, July 13 (Xinhua) -- Three Syrians died on Monday from the COVID-19 infection, raising the death toll to 19, the state news agency SANA reported.
Meanwhile, the health ministry reported 23 new coronavirus cases in the government-controlled areas, bringing the overall number of infections to 417, including 136 recoveries.
Last week, two people were reported to have contracted COVID-19 in rebel-held areas in Idlib Province in northwestern Syria.
In addition, six new cases were reported in Kurdish-controlled areas in northeastern Syria.
The first case was reported in government-controlled areas in March.
The Syrian government has taken several measures to prevent the spread of the deadly virus, such as imposing a curfew and shutting down businesses.
However, with the tough economic situation and the new sanctions imposed on the country, the government eased the restrictions, urging self-protection measures.
China has offered help to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
On April 15, China delivered to Syria the first batch of medical aid, including 2,016 COVID-19 testing kits.
On April 23, a video conference was held between Chinese and Syrian medical experts to share the experience in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.
On June 4 and June 24, Syria received two more batches of medical supplies donated by China, including testing kits, protective suits, masks, goggles and infrared thermometers. Enditem
