Iran influenza vaccine shortage and rising respiratory cases

Iran is experiencing challenges regarding influenza vaccine availability and the management of respiratory diseases. In late August, reports indicated a significant delay in the distribution of influenza vaccines, missing the typical late August to early October vaccination window. The shortage is attributed to a lack of domestic production and difficulties securing imports from European suppliers due to economic and logistical hurdles. While a shipment of 400,000 doses from China’s Sinopharm was expected, distribution was not anticipated until October.

By late September, health officials reported a significant rise in respiratory infections. Dr. Qobad Moradi, head of the Center for Communicable Disease Management, warned that the onset of the cold season and increased time spent in enclosed spaces would likely drive influenza waves. Regarding school reopenings, Moradi advised that while student returns increase transmission risks, they should not necessitate closures if proper ventilation, hygiene etiquette, and sick-child isolation are maintained.

Recent data from the 27th week of the year shows that COVID-19 positivity rates have nearly doubled, rising from 8.9 percent to 17.4 percent, surpassing high-alert thresholds. Influenza positivity has also increased to 1.7 percent, with Type B being the dominant strain, accounting for 80.7 percent of cases. Notably, children make up 36.5 percent of influenza infections, particularly in the 2 to 15 age range. Pediatric specialist Mohammad Rahim Kadivar noted that COVID-19 circulation is currently outpacing influenza. While current variants may present less severe symptoms, authorities emphasize that the virus remains highly transmissible, especially for the elderly and those with underlying conditions.