Iran has emerged as one of the worst-hit countries of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. 

As of now, there have been more than 12,700 confirmed cases of the disease across all of Iran.

At a time when the country is dealing with one of the worst health challenges of present times, Qatar has reached out to Iran offering a helping hand.

Upon the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar has dispatched the first batch of medical aid to Iran.

This batch contains more than six tonnes of medical equipment and supplies, Qatar News Agency (QNA) reported.

Upon the directives of HH the Amir, Qatar Fund for Development has sent the first batch of urgent medical assistance to Iran to combat the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. The first batch of aid included about six tons of medical equipment and supplies. #QNA pic.twitter.com/X1BdUZYzg2

— Qatar News Agency (@QNAEnglish) March 15, 2020

Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) is leading the initiative and has emphasized that "Qatar will continue to support all international efforts to fight this epidemic that threatens the entire international community."

Yesterday, QNA had reported, "HH the Amir has directed to send urgent medical assistance to the Islamic Republic of Iran, given the outbreak of the coronavirus epidemic, as a contribution from the State of Qatar to combating this epidemic."

Iran and Qatar have always maintained strong bilateral relations, which were further cemented after the blockade.

Iran was one of the first countries to reach out to Qatar and its people by immediately opening its airspace and seaports. This was also recognized by HH the Amir in January this year during a state visit to Iran. 

Meanwhile, in Qatar, health authorities continue to implement the highest level of monitoring, detection, and management procedures to deal with the virus, the public has been advised to follow certain measures to safeguard their health.

This includes washing your hands often, using hand sanitizers, and keeping a distance of at least one meter (3 feet) from people who have symptoms of illness.

For any queries, or concerns related to COVID-19 in Qatar, the public can contact a 24/7 hotline set up by the Ministry. The hotline number is 16000 and is toll-free.

Here's everything you need to know about the virus, including ways to protect yourself. 

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