• March 11, 2020
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Iran reports highest one-day death toll from COVID-19

Iran has reported a total of 54 deaths from the novel coronavirus on Tuesday, 10 March, marking the country’s highest one-day toll to date. The previous day, 43 deaths were recorded. A total of 291 people has died out of 8,042 cases in the Islamic Republic. Fatalities include government officials, several politicians and medical staff.

The country remains the worst hit by the outbreak in the Middle East, with its capital Tehran having the greatest number of cases at 2,114. The province of Mazandaran to the north recorded 253 new cases, bringing its total to 886 and making it the second most affected area in the nation.

Quarantines have not been imposed in Iran yet. However, hotels and other accommodation in the country have been closed in order to discourage travel, especially in affected locales.

In a televised address, health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour reiterated the government’s call to refrain from travelling. “As we said and expected in recent days, Mazandaran has almost reached the top of the chart. Our warnings against travelling to Mazandaran may be more understandable today”, he said.

Direct fatalities aside, another 44 deaths were recorded from methanol poisoning due to false information that drinking alcohol could safeguard individuals from the disease.