As of March 23, Iraq had registered 266 novel coronavirus cases, with 23 deaths. Although Iraq is much better off than many other countries, the fast-growing number of cases — 33 new infections and three more deaths in a 24-hour period — indicate that Iraq soon may face a very difficult situation. 

Also, measures the government has taken to fight the virus have damaged the economy; these steps have included imposing a curfew, closing roads between cities and canceling all religious tourism. This is not mention the oil price drop.

Many Iraqis, fearing that the country will suffer a more widespread outbreak, have started wearing face masks and have stayed home rather than go to their jobs in an effort to avoid catching COVID-19. However, a small number of people are not abiding by the government's curfew order, causing fears that the situation will worsen. 

Merchants have jacked up the price of face masks, taking advantage of the growing demand. The Ministry of Industry and Minerals quickly responded by manufacturing masks locally and selling them to citizens at reduced prices.