Iran coronavirus: 68,192 cases and 4,232 deaths reported

1,972 people tested positive for the COVID-19 virus in the past 24 hours, putting the total number at 68,192, Report says, citing RIA Novosti. Spokesman of the Iranian Health Ministry Kianoush Jahanpour, reported another 122 deaths from the novel coronavirus, taking the overall toll in the Middle East's worst-hit country to 4,232.

Statistics show an increase in the number of infected people after more than ten days of decline.

Iran announced its first coronavirus cases on February 19.

There has been speculation abroad that the real number of deaths and infections in the country could be higher.

In response to the health crisis, Iran shut schools and universities as well as cinemas, stadiums and revered Shiite Muslim shrines.

It also warned people to refrain from travel for the Persian New Year holidays that ended last week.