March 31,2020

Andrew Campbell 

The total number of COVID-19 infection cases has risen to 2,377, with the death toll reaching 17, Russian authorities announced on March 31. To stop the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic, the Russian government has imposed lockdown in several regions, including St. Petersburg and the capital Moscow. Residents are allowed to leave home only for buying groceries, dropping garbage, and walking pets. In addition, Russia has suspended all international fights and banned the entry of any foreign nationals.

On March 31, Russian lawmakers in the State Duma, the lower house of parliament, approved legislation that would charge people who violate quarantine measures up to 7 years in jail sentences and fines up to 2 million Roubles (US$25,500).

According to data released from Moscow’s crisis center, 48% of COVID-19 infection residents were aged between 18 and 40, and 8% were children. It indicated 56% of Moscow’s Coronavirus infection cases were younger than 40 years old. However, it contradicts WHO's study which has shown the Coronavirus most severely affects the elderly and people with underlying medical conditions.

Photo:Webshot.