An Iranian Instagram star jailed on blasphemy charges has contracted the coronavirus in custody, her lawyer says.
Fatemeh Khishvand, who now goes by the name Sahar Tabar, was .
The internet personality has become well known for undergoing radical plastic surgery in a bid to resemble US actress Angelina Jolie.
Her lawyer Payam Derafshan announced her diagnosis on Instagram this week.
Sahar Tabar rose to prominence on Instagram after documenting her extensive plastic surgeries. Source: Instagram
"Her arrest warrant was issued in October 2018, at the time she was a minor and I venture to draw your attention to this critical issue that she has contracted coronavirus in jail," Mr Derafshan wrote.
The lawyer called on Ebrahim Reisei, the head of Iran's justice system, to take "appropriate and responsible measures within the frameworks of law and issued regulations" to assist Ms Tabar.
Ms Tabar shot to prominence on Instagram last year after posting a series of images of her face altered through plastic surgery.
Most of the photos and videos that were shared with her some 26,800 followers have been heavily edited so that she seemingly resembles Hollywood star Angelina Jolie.
Fatemeh Khishvand, better known by her online name Sahar Tabar. Source: Instagram
Iran has now confirmed more than 80,000 cases of COVID-19, reporting 5031 deaths since the pandemic hit the country in mid-February.
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others and gatherings are limited to two people unless you are with your family or household.
If you believe you may have contracted the virus, call your doctor (don’t visit) or contact the national Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080. If you are struggling to breathe or experiencing a medical emergency, call 000.
SBS is committed to informing Australia’s diverse communities about the latest COVID-19 developments. News and information is available in 63 languages at
