Coronavirus in Iran | Beginning of Sixth Wave; Number of Cases Seven Times Higher Than Before Omicron Outbreak
As statistics from Iran’s Ministry of Health show that the number of coronavirus cases in Iran has increased sevenfold compared to before the Omicron outbreak, the Ministry of Health’s Mask application has announced the beginning of the sixth wave of coronavirus in the country.
In the past 24 hours, the official number of coronavirus cases in Iran increased by approximately 2,000 more, reaching 9,378 cases.
Mask, in a statement, has deemed it necessary to avoid holding gatherings in enclosed spaces, conducting classes virtually, remote work for employees, and prohibiting food service in restaurants and banquet halls.
The secretary of Iran’s Association of Infectious and Tropical Diseases told ILNA news agency that Iran is expected to reach the peak of the sixth wave by the end of Bahman month and early Esfand. Amitis Ramazani emphasized that mortality statistics reveal themselves with a two to three week delay.
The secretary of the Association of Infectious Diseases said that reopening schools will cause “intensification and faster acceleration” of the sixth wave.
On the other hand, the acting head of the Ministry of Health’s Public Relations Center also reported simultaneous increases in Delta and Omicron cases and the rise of Omicron deaths to 10 people.
Mohammad Hashemi said in a television interview that adherence to coronavirus health protocols in the country has reached approximately 46 percent. He said the Ministry of Health’s recommendation is to receive a third dose of vaccine, but according to statistics, only 17 percent of the eligible population has received their booster dose.
Despite multiple warnings about the necessity of reinstating restrictions and concerns about reopening schools and universities, Iran’s Interior Minister said that restrictions will only be implemented if the number of red and orange-coded cities increases.
In the current color-coding map for coronavirus spread, one city is classified with orange color (high-risk), but in recent months, there have been many criticisms regarding the color-coding criteria.
The secretary of the National Scientific Committee for Combating Coronavirus said: “If hospitalization cases are the only indicator for city color-coding, the impact of the Omicron outbreak may not be properly reflected in the country.”
However, Ahmad Vahidi, the Interior Minister, only emphasized compliance with protocols by the public and said: “Strict adherence to protocols should be such that we do not need to return to previous restrictions.”
Source: Voice of America
