Preps in Sochi with tourists expected for New Year

Southern Russia is preparing to cope with an influx of tourists for New Year celebrations, adding further pressure amid a surge in coronavirus infections.

Boris Dgioyev, the head of a venereology clinic in Sochi, said hospitalised COVID-19 patients not needing oxygen support would be transferred to his facility.

Russia has been swept by a rapid resurgence of cases since September, with confirmed infections and deaths significantly exceeding those reported in the spring.Authorities have resisted imposing a second nationwide lockdown or a widespread closure of businesses, saying the health system is largely coping with the influx of patients.

Earlier this month, Russian authorities started a mass vaccination campaign with the domestically developed Sputnik V shot that is still undergoing late-stage testing needed to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

(IMAGE CREDITS:AP)