Lukashenko Arrived At "Gorodets" While Ill

What viruses are currently circulating in Belarus?

Lukashenko visited his “hometown” agricultural company, ASB-Agro Gorodets CJSC – the former "Gorodets" state farm. Footage of his visit was published by an anonymous Telegram channel that serves as Lukashenko’s press office, as noted by “Belsat”.

As seen in the video, Lukashenko repeatedly blows his nose into a handkerchief and sniffs. The head of his administration, Dmitry Krutoy, frequently rubs his nose. Someone else in the background is coughing loudly. Meanwhile, Lukashenko and his entourage are among crowds of people both outdoors and indoors.

It is unknown exactly what Lukashenko and those close to him are suffering from. However, since early fall, virologists have been warning Belarusians—including through state media—about the circulation of three types of viruses:

non-influenza respiratory viruses (parainfluenza, adenoviruses, rhinoviruses, RSV, bocoviruses, seasonal “old” coronaviruses, metapneumoviruses);

influenza viruses (H1N1 is expected to predominate, while H3N2 activity is forecast to be reduced);

the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (which causes COVID-19).

As emphasized in state media, the situation is stable, under control, and typical for this time of year. An increase in the incidence of respiratory infections is expected in late January, with a peak in early February; a new wave of influenza B infections is possible toward the end of winter or in early spring. However, an actual increase in cases has been observed since September.

A Russian COVID-19 vaccine, “Konvasel,” is also available. It is recommended for adults with immunosuppression, employees of facilities with year-round occupancy, and people over 60 years of age.

To reduce the risk of infection and the spread of respiratory infections, doctors advise following the rules of hygiene and respiratory etiquette; ventilate rooms more often and perform wet cleaning; maintain a healthy lifestyle; and try to minimize visits to crowded places.

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lukashenko did not follow doctors’ recommendations and made false statements about the virus and protective measures. His denial of the pandemic may have been one of the catalysts for the 2020 protests: some protesters’ signs bore the word “psychosis,” which Lukashenko used to describe the fight against the disease.

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