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Military medics provide aid in fight against COVID-19 in 43 Russian regions

The COVID-19 infection rate in the Russian army and fleet is 25% lower than the country’s average, according to the top brass

MOSCOW, February 2. /TASS/. Military medics are providing aid to the local population in the fight against COVID-19 in 43 Russian regions, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said during a ministry session on Tuesday.

"Since the start of the pandemic, the armed forces have been involved in aiding civilian healthcare. We continue providing this aid now. In 43 regions, the local population is receiving aid and necessary treatment at military hospitals," he said.

Speaking of the COVID-19 situation in the armed forces, the minister noted that due to effective measures and work of the special taskforce, the epidemiological situation is under control. He stated that the COVID-19 infection rate in the Russian army and fleet is 25% lower than the country’s average. Over 100,000 troops have been vaccinated. "By late March, we plan to conclude the first stage of vaccination. Since the New Year, family members of military officers can get vaccinated against COVID-19 as well," Shoigu said.

He also informed that special PCR labs had been set up to detect the novel coronavirus that conduct up to 6,000 tests a day. Over 800 ambulances are on constant alert, along with 18 helicopters and nine planes equipped for transportation of patients in a serious condition.