Virologist Altshtein spoke about the likelihood of an ARVI epidemic and a lockdown.

      September 17, 2025 16:59

      [137]

      Society

      Russia is experiencing an alarming rise in ARVI cases: their number increased by 63.8% over the week. The increase is especially noticeable among schoolchildren — their number doubled. Such trends are typical for the autumn period, when people return to their usual way of life after summer holidays and vacations. At the same time, the number of COVID-19 cases is over 15,000, which is considered a low figure.

      Authorities are considering the possibility of introducing restrictions such as closing schools and moving employees to remote work.

      However, virologist, Doctor of Medical Sciences and Professor Anatoly Altshtein told the TV channel "360" that for a lockdown to be introduced in Russia the number of ARVI cases would have to reach 70 per 100,000 population. At the moment this threshold has not been exceeded. Even if the situation worsens, an automatic lockdown will not be imposed.

      Rospotrebnadzor recommends vaccination as the primary means of protection. It is also important to maintain a sleep schedule, exercise, eat properly and avoid fast food. At the first symptoms of illness it is better to stay home and consult a doctor.

      For adults, Anatoly Altshtein also advises getting vaccinated and avoiding mass events, especially elderly people and those with immune system problems.

      Additional preventive measures:

      - Wear a mask in public places: especially on transport, in shops, government offices and other places with large numbers of people.

      - Wash your hands with antibacterial agents: this will help prevent the spread of infection.

      - Rinse your nose with solutions containing sea salt: this strengthens the mucous membrane and reduces the risk of infection.

      - Take decoctions or tinctures with adaptogens: ginseng, eleutherococcus, Rhodiola rosea, echinacea help the body cope with stress.

      - Keep a daily routine and get enough sleep: full sleep strengthens the immune system.

      - Ventilate rooms regularly: fresh air is important for health.

      - Perform wet cleaning daily: this helps destroy viruses and bacteria.

      - Eat a balanced diet: include proteins, fats, carbohydrates and fiber.

      Folk remedies such as herbal infusions, honey, garlic, ginger and rosehip may be helpful, but do not replace professional medical care. According to Altshtein, antiviral drugs should not be taken unless necessary.

      Rospotrebnadzor recommends not postponing immunization until late autumn, when a peak of respiratory illnesses is expected, but to get vaccinated now.

      Earlier it was reported that two dangerous strains of flu will arrive in Russia this autumn. It was also reported that cases of infection with a new type of coronavirus, "Stratus," have been registered in the Nizhny Novgorod region.

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