Russian health authorities today reported 320 new deaths from Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the last 24 hours, a new daily high. In response, the authorities today stepped up epidemic prevention measures, including the wearing of masks in public places.
The Russian Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Protection and Welfare (Rospotrebnadzor) said that the public will have to wear masks in crowded areas, mass transit, taxis and elevators from now on.
The Federal Service for Consumer Protection and Welfare Supervision also banned public events between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., stating that cafes and restaurants should be closed during this period.
Russia is the fourth most infected country in the world, with 1,547,747 confirmed cases and 26,589 deaths. Moscow, the capital, remains the epicenter of the outbreak, with city authorities earlier this month asking residents over the age of 65 to stay home.
At the beginning of the outbreak, Russia had imposed one of the toughest national lockdowns, shutting down non-essential businesses. Moscow residents were allowed to move freely only with official digital passes.
However, Russia lifted most of the restrictions on epidemics in advance of a major military parade in June and a nationwide referendum on constitutional changes. The constitutional referendum paves the way for Russian President Vladimir Putin to remain in power until 2036.
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