Outbreak in Evin Women’s Ward Raises Alarms
An unidentified flu-like illness has rapidly spread among female prisoners in the women’s ward of Evin Prison, affecting a significant number of inmates. The symptoms of the illness include severe coughing with phlegm, headaches, body aches, fatigue, drowsiness, and weakness. The situation has become so dire that many prisoners have had to receive intravenous fluids.
Inadequate Medical Care and Quarantine Facilities
Despite the seriousness of the outbreak, the female prisoners are reportedly being denied adequate medical care and access to proper quarantine facilities to isolate those who are sick. This is especially concerning given that some of the affected prisoners are elderly, including political prisoners Parvin Mirasan and Raheleh Rahemipour, both of whom are over 70 years old.
High-Risk Prisoners
The situation is further exacerbated by the presence of several high-risk prisoners who suffer from pre-existing conditions. These include serious illnesses such as cancer, multiple sclerosis (MS), and cardiovascular diseases, making them particularly vulnerable to complications from the flu-like illness.
Some of the most at-risk inmates include:
Raheleh Rahemipour (71 years old): A political prisoner with a brain tumor and other serious health issues.
Marzieh Farsi: Another political prisoner who has previously battled cancer and continues to suffer from its effects.
Houri (Fatemeh) Ziaii: A political prisoner with multiple sclerosis and other infectious diseases.
Human Rights Violations in Evin Prison
The failure to provide adequate medical care to sick prisoners and the lack of proper quarantine measures constitute clear violations of the fundamental principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This treatment not only contravenes human dignity and ethical standards but also breaches several specific articles of the declaration, including Article 3 on the right to life, Article 5 on prohibition of torture and inhuman treatment, and Article 7, the principle of equality.
The ongoing health crisis in Evin Prison’s women’s ward underscores the urgent need for international attention and intervention to protect the lives and rights of these prisoners.
