Iran health authorities officially warned the public about a rising wave of influenza across the country. The Iran flu alert comes as hospitals report increasing numbers of patients with respiratory infections, especially children and adolescents. The Ministry of Health stated that cases have surged significantly in recent weeks and will likely continue.
The Ministry of Health released the warning in a statement on Sunday, November 23. Authorities said the percentage of positive influenza cases has grown sharply since mid-November. Children and teenagers account for the largest share of infections. Fever remains the most common symptom among pediatric patients, and uncontrolled fever can cause seizures in rare cases.
Alireza Raisi, Deputy Minister of Health, said influenza cases are particularly evident in provinces such as Qom. He reported that about 30 to 40 percent of patients seeking treatment for respiratory problems in Qom tested positive for influenza. Despite the rising cases, the ministry has not published official statistics on deaths caused by the flu. Officials urge citizens to follow public health guidelines to reduce transmission and protect vulnerable populations.
Experts also link the outbreak to environmental factors. A Tehran-based newspaper reported the “cooperation of influenza and air pollution,” highlighting that pollution worsens respiratory health and spreads the disease. Infectious disease specialist Amitis Ramazani warned that influenza infections will likely peak by late December. He added that the current timing raises the risk of high transmission rates.
Behdad Ashjaei, an air pollution expert, compared the situation to the COVID-19 pandemic. He explained that overlapping respiratory viruses and poor air quality increase public health risks. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health confirmed that COVID-19 currently causes about two percent of respiratory infections and continues to monitor cases closely.
Iran’s previous response to the COVID-19 pandemic faced criticism for delaying vaccine imports and distribution. Political decisions, including restricting vaccine imports from certain countries, slowed early vaccination campaigns and contributed to higher infection rates.
The Iran flu alert signals a pressing need for preventive measures. Authorities urge citizens to maintain hygiene, wear masks in crowded areas, and seek medical care if symptoms worsen. The government monitors both influenza and COVID-19 cases to prevent further health crises.