Seeking to allay public fears in Armenia after the first coronavirus case was recorded in the country earlier today, Minister of Health Arsen Torosyan stated at a Yerevan press conference that there was no basis for panic.

 “We cannot become an island of panic just to ease people's fears. I would like to say that there is no need to be afraid and what has been done is more than necessary,” Torosyan said.

According to the minister, despite the increase in cases of coronavirus infections in Italy and Iran, there is still a global decline at this time and we should be ready to eliminate it and remove restrictions.

“I know about the World Health Organization's assessment of our capabilities. Yes, there have been many shortcomings in the health care system, the correction of which are quick and straightforward, and which, in some cases, require systemic and institutional changes. I don't want to use the word excellent, but we are quite well prepared,” said Torosyan.

The government has quarantined 32 people who were on the February 28 flight from Tehran to Yerevan. They are being housed in the resort town of Tzaghkadzor, at the Golden Palace Hotel.

If the virus spreads, Torosyan says that new quarantine locations may be needed.

Torosyan says that health officials have tested 117 people who complained of flu like symptoms and that al tested negative for the coronavirus.

“We know all the hospitalized patients with, for example, respiratory ailments. All have been tested and the results have been negative,” Torosyan told reporters.

The minister then repeated the claims of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan that the government is taking all appropriate measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

Torosyan, however, did not rule out the possibility that today’s recorded coronavirus case might not be the last.

Ministry of Health photo