Haniyeh says she stopped going to work before the Persian new year, but with bills mounting, she has made the difficult decision to return to work when the restrictions are eased.

“I’ve stayed home for the past 45 days, but I’ve to go back to work starting next week despite all the risks to my health because I can’t pay my rent and bills without a salary,” Haniyeh said.

Her situation is similar to that of many others who have few options but to risk their health in order to make ends meet.

“I don’t know how much longer this situation will continue, but for people like us who can’t live without an income, it is really hard to choose between making money or trying to stay safe.”