Masks reinstated in Russian Government House amid Covid, seasonal health concerns

In response to a seasonal surge in colds, flu, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian Government House has reinforced mandatory mask-wearing and other preventive measures, Cabinet Ministers in Moscow told TASS news agency.

A spokesperson for the cabinet informed TASS about the newly implemented measures: "Extra preventive measures, including wearing masks, are being temporarily introduced in the Government House premises. The decision was made following a seasonal uptick in acute respiratory viral infections, flu, and COVID-19." The cabinet expects that these temporary restrictions will play a crucial role in maintaining a favourable epidemiological situation.

The mandate for wearing masks in Government facilities was initially imposed at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. However, since April of this year, masks and similar precautions have remained recommended rather than mandatory.

Broader measures announced for Government

Earlier, news reports from RBC news outlet had indicated that anti-epidemic measures would make a return to Russia's House of Government. As of September 18, mask-wearing will once again be compulsory within the premises. Furthermore, face-to-face interactions among staff members will be limited, and there will be a reduction in both foreign and domestic work-related travel.

Russian Health Ministry readies for seasonal challenges

In preparation for the upcoming cold and flu season, the Russian Health Ministry is taking steps to ensure the nation's readiness. Alexey Kuznetsov, an aide to the Russian Health Minister, stated the stability of Russia's current epidemiological situation. However, he noted that a certain increase in acute respiratory viral infections has been observed, linked to people returning from vacations and the commencement of the academic year.

"Despite a certain rise in cases of acute respiratory viral infections, which are related to the return [of people] from vacations and the start of an academic year, in general, the epidemic situation is stable now," Kuznetsov told TASS. "By decision of the crisis centre of the Russian Health Ministry headed by Minister Mikhail Murashko, the regions have been instructed to organise preparations for a seasonal rise in respiratory infections, which is typical of autumn, including to create the required stock of medicines, to arrange the routing of patients, and to work on strengthening the district and infectious disease service."