Iran's COVID-19 infection pace slows down: official

An Iranian deputy health minister said Monday the pace of COVID-19 infection in Iran has slowed down over the past days, state TV reported.

Iraj Harirchi urged people to remain at home and avoid any unnecessary trips, visits and shopping.

"Eighty percent of infected people have either little or no symptoms. These individuals can spread the virus in the society. Our efforts are aimed at identifying them in the early stages ... and isolating those who have been in contact with such people," Harirchi was quoted as saying.

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 in Iran on Feb. 19, a total of 73,303 cases have been reported, of whom 4,585 have died.