Iran: Rise in COVID-19 infections spark fears over second wave June 3 /update 30

Event

Iran recorded 3754 cases of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on Wednesday, June 3, the highest daily number of recorded cases since the pandemic began and the third consecutive day on which over 3000 cases have been confirmed. Iran's highest daily figure previously was 3186 on March 30, leading to fears that the country is on the verge of a second wave of the virus.

The alarming rise in cases comes as restrictions continue to be eased by authorities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced on Saturday, May 30, that mosques would resume daily prayers throughout the country, even in areas that have reported high numbers of COVID-19 cases. Social distancing measures and additional health protocols must be in place during prayers. Rouhani further announced that shopping malls would be permitted to extend their opening hours amid further steps in the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

Businesses have been able to resume operations from May 30, with people encouraged to return to work. Parks, gardens, and recreational areas have also reopened as part of the easing of measures, while gyms, restaurants, and cafés remain closed until further notice.

As of Friday, June 5, health authorities have confirmed 164,270 COVID-19 cases and 8071 associated deaths in the country. Further spread of the virus is expected in the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and trouble breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the disease.