Iranian president Hassan Rouhani has urged people to comply with epidemiological rules to prevent the COVID-19 spread until the disease recedes, Tasnim reported.

In comments at a Saturday meeting of the Coronavirus fight national headquarters, Rouhani said Iran must brace itself for a long-term battle against the COVID-19.

According to him, the virus will not disappear and cannot be destroyed in the near future, and there is no solution providing complete immunity to infection.

Rouhani also unveiled plans to wear masks for one to two weeks in areas marked as red zones with a high risk of infection.

He also noted it is impossible to close businesses and suspend the economy, educational, cultural, and religious events, highlighting the need to avoid crowded places.

The Iranian president also announced plans to reopen schools and universities since September 5.