The return of masks: an increase in COVID incidence and new restrictions

In November 2023, several regions of Russia - due to a surge in COVID-19 cases and seasonal diseases - reintroduced the mask regime in medical institutions. This was unpleasant, but expected news for many - the pandemic, which seemed to be a thing of the past, reminded itself. Some hospitals have reintroduced visitation restrictions, stepped up health enforcement, and increased demand for vaccinations and testing. For people, this meant a return to a restricted lifestyle: many gave up scheduled visits to doctors, trips, and social events. This especially hit the elderly, people with chronic diseases and families with children. November was the month when the illusion of “post-Covid normality” began to decline—society was once again faced with restrictions that reminded us that the pandemic can still affect everyday life and health.