All news
Get up, the flu is coming!
Russian President Vladimir Putin listened to Health Minister Mikhail Murashko at a meeting with government ministers on the 16th and recommended a domestically produced vaccine for the elderly. Kommersant correspondent Andrei Kolesnikov finds out what impression this recommendation made on the president.
The meeting, held via videoconference, discussed a number of issues, each more important than the other, before finally getting to the most important one: health news.
— Over the past five years, there has been an unprecedented development of medical infrastructure and technologies in the modern history of our country (i.e., right under Mikhail Murashko. — AK).
But Mr. Murashko found the strength to make a reservation.
- Of course, it is thanks to your instructions and attention to the system!
There was clearly no such direction and interest before, even under President Vladimir Putin. Or at least, there wasn't enough of it.
After a long conversation about his five-year plans, Mikhail Murashko suddenly decided to return to urgent matters.
"Today's meeting began with winter preparations," he said reservedly. "Vladimir Vladimirovich, I want to tell you that the medical system is also preparing (surprise! - AK)! For us, this is the season of pandemics and the time of increasing morbidity! 71 million doses of the flu vaccine have been purchased. Starting in July, everything will be delivered locally and on time. Vaccinations continue! Currently, 39 million people have already been vaccinated, which corresponds to 45% of those eligible.
And not a word is said about predicates.
— First of all, I would like to address the people of our country. Vaccination against influenza, especially for the elderly with chronic diseases, is not just recommended; because it will help you protect and maintain your health during this period. Winter season — Mikhail Murashko concluded his report.
- Are we fully prepared for vaccination? - President Putin showed interest.
Mr. Murashko confirmed: "Yes." "Everything was delivered on time." We are actively engaging employers. However, we believe that this is absolutely economically justified, since by purchasing additional vaccines for their employees, employers receive fewer sick days and, therefore, do not experience difficulties in the production process.
“Are the recommended vaccinations this year different from last year’s?” the President asked.
He was clearly preparing some questions, the main thing is the minister on these issues.
- Absolutely! - exclaimed Mr. Murashko, if that can be said about his usual stone face.
Okay, I didn't scream. Raised eyebrows on a stone face (I want to write: growl, but no, I won't).
"The antigen composition is updated every epidemic season," the minister explained. "A special group of experts is working for this purpose." Of course, a vaccine with a new antigen composition is planned for each season.
— Are there enough domestic medicines? — The President continued: “Or is this what we live in?”
Mr. Murashko answered decisively: "No." "Today we are fully provided with domestic vaccines and medicines against influenza." I would also like to say that the quality of domestic products is high, and the number of manufacturers is sufficient to meet the needs of our country, including exports.
"Doctors of the Central Clinical Hospital... I emphasize the word "regular" - done. -AK)... They also recommend vaccination with domestic drugs.
"Of course, you are right," said Mikhail Murashko. I would like to point out that starting this year, a special vaccine with maximum protection against the flu virus is being prepared for the elderly. This will help you avoid serious complications. Thank you very much for paying attention to this and this!
President Putin looked at the minister carefully. No, I simply emphasized the category to which Vladimir Putin himself belongs, saying that yes, a special vaccine has been created. This was probably not what the president wanted to hear from the Secretary of State in response to a simple question.
“I am grateful to the manufacturer,” said President Putin, nodding, “I really hope so.”
However, he still has doubts.
Because old people always have doubts.