The tally released by the Syrian Medical Association signaled that the outbreak was already widespread, because reported cases among medical personnel often indicate a far larger number of unreported cases in the general public. One Syrian medical student called the number of doctors who have died “terrifying.”

Since mid-August, the official count of all coronavirus infections has increased dramatically with 3,800 reported cases and about 180 deaths. But Syrians suspect the numbers are even higher.

“Patients are dying, but to rule the cause of death [is coronavirus], you need to do a swab. They need to have been previously diagnosed. And that isn’t happening,” said the medical student, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal.

The Health Ministry bases its count on positive coronavirus tests, but there are only six testing centers in government-held Syria, the ministry says.

In the absence of sufficient testing, doctors are trying to diagnose cases based on chest X-rays and other symptoms, sending patients home …continued .
[Source: Washington Post]