COVID-19 Gains Traction in Iran Ahead of Nowruz: Babken Pipoyan

The president of the Consumer Awareness and Protection NGO, Babken Pipoyan, wrote on his Facebook page: "While the Armenian Facebook sphere is 'extremely busy' with important issues, shaping various public demands, showcasing knowledge about the referendum, and throwing mud at one another, in neighboring Iran, the new coronavirus is gaining traction. According to official information, even death cases have been reported, and the atmosphere is, to put it mildly, tense.

Not wanting to offend anyone, I must point out that we only have official information provided by the Iranian side, and in reality, we can only assume how many people are infected. The current tension allows for further assumption, but we cannot rely on that. Why is the situation concerning? The incubation period of the disease can last up to 14 days, thus making it impossible to detect a virus carrier during the incubation period with increased border control. And ahead lies Nowruz (March 20), with a large influx of people expected.

Furthermore, activity has already begun since many people are coming to plan and agree on corresponding events. The diplomatic corps is faced with a complex challenge: on one hand, there is a serious public health issue, and on the other, Armenian-Iranian economic and diplomatic relations. With the weekend approaching, we must think ahead. Stay tuned for updates!"