TEHRAN – At a farewell ceremony held on Wednesday, August 14th, the Ministry of Health thanked Yafar Hussein, the World Health Organization representative, for his efforts and contribution to the development of the country’s health sector.
Hussein was reassigned as WHO representative and mission head of the Islamic Republic of Iran on April 1, 2021.
Prior to this mission, Dr. Hussein was a cabinet chef at the WHO Regional Office in the Eastern Mediterranean from July 1, 2019 to March 31, 2021.
Throughout these years he actively participated in various health sectors and took valuable steps to manage the health crisis.
Iranian officials praised Hussein’s support, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, highlighting that officials played an important role in promoting the goals of the health system by promoting effective cooperation and adopting a responsible approach.
Hussein said on his side he was proud that he had served in the country.
“Once I retire, I will return to Iran with my family and live here,” the health ministry website quoted Hussein as saying.
On August 2, Hussein emphasized that the country’s determination to eliminate hepatitis by Iran’s health experts and officials, and people, is commendable for the country’s determination to eliminate hepatitis by addressing hepatitis B and C.
Viral hepatitis is preventable and curable, but it is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the IRNA, officials said elimination of hepatitis requires collective measures and widespread participation, and officials emphasize the importance of raising public awareness, updating their commitments and promoting measures in the fight against hepatitis.
Officials made a statement on July 28th on World Hepatitis Day, which is observed annually.
Referring to Iran’s notable achievements in the management of hepatitis B through vaccination, Hussein detailed the existing challenges in the case of hepatitis C, particularly among vulnerable groups.
“We need to focus on health quality and programs such as peer support, harm reduction services, and expansion of testing and treatment,” Hussein said.
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Photo: Health Minister Mohammad Reza Zafarkandi (R) presents a gift to the representative of Iran Jafar Hussein in an undated photograph.