Russia: Authorities ease lockdown measures in Moscow June 9 /update 40

Event

Moscow authorities have announced the beginning of the gradual easing of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions, effective from Tuesday, June 9. Self-isolation rules, requirements for travel permits, and all restrictions on exercise and outdoor activities have been lifted. Hairdressing salons, veterinary clinics, recruitment agencies, non-governmental organizations, and cemeteries are now permitted to reopen, as are film and recording studios and research centers. Theatres, concert halls, and circuses can reopen for rehearsals, but not for shows. From June 16, more sectors will reopen, including dentists, libraries, and sports arenas, with the latter restricted to ten percent capacity. The third phase, from June 23, will allow areas of social gathering to open, such as bars and restaurants, as well as steam baths, swimming pools, and fitness clubs.

Moscow residents will still have to abide by social distancing measures and wear face masks in public. The dates given for the easing of measures may change should there be a significant increase in the number of confirmed cases.

As of June 9, authorities have confirmed 484,630 cases of COVID-19 in the country with 6133 associated deaths. In Moscow, there have been 198,590 cases and 3029 fatalities. Further international spread of the virus is to be expected over the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and labored breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the virus.