When Islamic Republic Health Minister promises more than 80% of eligible population in Iran will be “vaccinated” against COVID-19 by November 22, he probably means “receiving 1 dose” of ineffective Sinopharm and other “domestic vaccines“, 12million vials of which were delivered to the Ministry of Health, today! Because according to the official data, only 40,193,198 (47.84% of population) have received 2 doses of these vaccines, since February 9! WHO recommends 3 doses of Sinopharm for “full vaccination.” The same data indicate that only 268,638 third dose have been administered across Iran!
Dr. Alavi of Ahvaz Medical University implicitly criticized the government for the wave of premature reopenings while the country is experiencing a new outbreak. He added, at least 85% of eligible population must receive 2 doses of COVID-19 vaccines before restrictions are lifted, “not when only about 40% are vaccinated!” Dr. Alavi said 2 weeks constant decline in cases, deaths and hospitalizations without any uptick must be achieved before “Friday prayers, schools,… resume.” He warned that neighboring countries do not issue any report on their COVID-19 situation, which must be assumed that they are struggling. “Only 10% of Iraq and 1% of Afghanistan are vaccinated!”
In the past few days, borders have reopened. Tourists from Russia with a wave of Delta Plus have entered Iran, going to 4 provinces. High schools, with mandated in-person classes, reopened since November 6. Many parents and students are against the decision and have expressed their opposition. All other schools are to reopen on November 22.
On the other hand, provincial officials continue reporting low turnout for vaccination. Fars, one of the most populous provinces, started a campaign called “I vaccinate,” which confirms previous reports in other provinces too. Head of Kermanshah Health Network expressed his concern over the low vaccination in the province. Shakiba “hopes” in the next 2 weeks (by November 22), 100% of eligible population receive 1 dose of the vaccines!
The Ministry of Health Spokesperson claimed 112 have died of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours and 8,305 tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Professor of Epidemiology at Tehran University believes these numbers must be multiplied by 7 and Civil Registration Organization data show more than 305,000 have died of the disease since February 2020. Graphs illustrate the ongoing crisis in Iran and forming of the new wave.
R0: 2.04
Total: 6,004,460 (+8,305)
Dead: 127,551 (+112)
Recovered: 5,629,596
Critical: 3,640 (-29)
Active Cases: 247,313 (-5,943)
Total Tests: 36,502,080
Cover: Majid Khahi
