Russia's vast size shows difficulties containting COVID-19 infections

RUSSIA / FSU POLITICS - In Brief 01 May 2020 by Alex Teddy
On April 30 Russia's prime minister announced he has coronavirus. Mikhail Mishustin's duties are temporarily being carried out by deputy prime minister Andrei Belousov. Putin has never before appointed someone to do another's duty due to the incumbent's illness.Over 114 000 people have been diagnosed with the disease. However, many of these are asymptomatic cases (around 45%), while the testing rate in Russia is very high. There is a very low death rate in Russia versus other countries - at only just over 1,100 recorded deaths in total. Some researchers are suggesting correlation between countries (mostly post-Soviet and Eastern European) where the anti-tuberculosis BCG vaccination is given at birth and lower death rates. Although other countries may also practice BCG vaccination, it is suggested the longevity and thoroughness of the program are decisive. May 1 saw the single biggest one day leap in infections. Despite taking serious measures Russia is not managing to keep the spread of the virus under tight control. The press speculates that PM Mishustin might be fired, though given his recent appointment in early 2020 this would be unusual for Putin. Mishustin was appointed to implement national projects. Now the priority is controlling the deficit and avoiding economic meltdown. His speciality is tax and that is no longer the most relevant issue. Russia's paid non working periods ends on May 11. It might need to be extended. But at the moment Putin said he is planning to ease lockdowns from May 12. Moscow has taken severe measures. Infections are going down. But one swallow does not a summer make. COVID-19 has got into the regions. It is in the minor cities where CO...

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