Rouhani warns people that COVID-19 may stay until 2021 in Iran

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has called on the people to observe the health protocols and avoid attending unnecessary ceremonies, as the country continues to deal with the spread of COVID-19 and will probably do so until the end of the Iranian year (ends on March 21, 2021), Olaylar reports via IRNA.

"During the outbreak of the coronavirus, good measures have been taken by the Ministry of Health and the countrychr("39")s medical staff," Rouhani said.

"Despite all the efforts to the fight COVID-19, we are still seeing an increase in the number of infection cases in some cities," he said.

He further called on the people to weak face masks, to prevent possible transmission of the virus.

"From July 5th, it will be mandatory in public places and gatherings to wear masks, including in the subway," he said.

The president said Iranchr("39")s fight against coronavirus is focused on elderly patients.

Rouhani added that the restrictions for businesses will stay in place, especially regarding those businesses that are not vital for the economy.