MOSCOW, January 9. /TASS/. Russia’s new cases of flu and acute respiratory infections more than halved in the first week of 2024, the federal sanitary watchdog said in a statement.

"Over 527,000 new cases of flu and acute respiratory infection were recorded in the first week of 2024, marking a 51.4% drop compared to the last week of 2023," the statement reads.

According to the watchdog, new cases of flu and acute respiratory infections are above the country’s average in 46 regions.

"The drop in new cases at the beginning of the year rather indicates that people are less inclined to see a doctor during the holiday season. However, once they return to work or school, they start to actively share viruses and we usually record a rise in new cases in the second half of January," Anna Popova, the watchdog chief, said.

She also highlighted the need for preventive measures. "Wash your hands more often, let some air in, sanitize your working areas and gadgets, and avoid coming into contact with people showing signs of illness. And, most importantly, do not self-medicate but immediately see a doctor to avoid negative health consequences," Popova stressed.