Iran Ministry of Health warns of rising COVID-19 and influenza cases

Dr. Qobad Moradi, head of the Center for Communicable Disease Management at the Ministry of Health, has warned of an increase in COVID-19 and influenza cases over the past three weeks. With the onset of the cold season and increased time spent in enclosed spaces, respiratory infections are expected to rise, potentially leading to influenza waves in the coming months.

Regarding the reopening of schools, Moradi stated that while the return of students increases the risk of transmission, it should not lead to unnecessary school closures. He emphasized three key prevention measures for educational environments: ensuring proper ventilation, teaching respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene, and keeping sick children at home until they recover.

Health officials recommend influenza vaccination, particularly for the elderly and those with underlying conditions, noting that the ideal time for injection is during Shahrivar and Mehr (late summer/early autumn). While vaccines provide 40 to 60 percent prevention, Moradi stressed that hygiene protocols, such as mask-wearing in crowded areas and hand washing, remain critical for high-risk groups.