The COVID-19 Outbreak in Iran: Its Lessons for Us

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2, with 96% genetic similarity to the bat coronavirus transmitted to humans by the intermediate host in China, has been spread rapidly by travelers to most countries, including Iran. Following the detection of the first death related to COVID-19 on February 19, 2020, in the health center of Qom, a holy city in the center of Iran, the spread of the virus in Iran was initiated and quickly spread to all provinces of Iran by asymptomatic individuals. Until April 21, 2020, of the 330137 tested patients, the number of infected people was 80,868. The most common clinical symptoms were fever, cough, fatigue, and dyspnea. Patients had abnormal computed tomography scans, lymphopenia, and elevated C-reactive protein. The patients and those who were in contact with them had to be quarantined. Other asymptomatic people also recommended quarantining themselves at home to cut off the transmission chain. Therefore, COVID-19 could be controlled by disinfecting public places, informing people, providing comprehensive assistance to stay at home, and most importantly, initiating vaccination.