Due to the recent outbreak of swine flu in Sistan-Baluchestan and Kerman provinces, and several cases of seasonal influenza as a result of early onset of winter, several pharmacies have increased the prices of health masks. The actual cost of the best mask should be less than 35,000 rials ($1), while some pharmacies are seen to be overcharging, said Seyed Hossein Safavi, general secretary of the Office for Monitoring and Evaluation of Medical Equipment and Supplies, at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), IRNA reports. In Kerman, masks are being sold for $3-$7, according to the Young Journalists Club.
