A top Russian doctor recommended Tuesday that people dress warmly, eat a good breakfast and stock up on protective face masks to combat a seasonal flu outbreak.
Gennady Onishchenko, head of the state consumer protection watchdog, said the flu season has yet to hit the country but people should get prepared.
"When it arrives, we'll tell you," he told reporters. "Then you should annoy others by wearing a mask in shops, in the metro and behind the wheel of your car."
He also suggested "dressing for the season, getting outside and eating breakfast, because an empty stomach is not the best defense against the flu," Interfax reported.
He said flu vaccinations could also help, noting that 9.4 percent of the population have been vaccinated so far — or 13.48 million people — and that he expected more than 30 percent to have received the injections this winter, Itar-Tass reported.
At-risk groups recommended for flu vaccinations include teachers, health professionals, students, children who attend preschool and those over 60 years old. The vaccine is produced in Russia and aims to combat all strains of influenza expected in the upcoming season.
Related articles:
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
