Coronavirus infection in Russia. November 15

In the past 24 hours, Russia has confirmed 38 823 cases of COVID-19 and 1 219 deaths due to a disease caused by the novel coronavirus. The total case count going up to 9 070 674 and 255 386 deaths, the anti-coronavirus crisis center informed.

- Russia will introduce health passes for access to public places, restaurants and intercity trains and planes in a radical move designed to boost Russia's sluggish vaccination campaign

- Russia is now the world leader in coronavirus deaths for the first time since the start of the pandemic.

- The developer of Russia's coronavirus vaccine Sputnik V has said Moscow should make jabs mandatory as inoculation rates remain low despite record deaths and campaigning by authorities.

- St. Petersburg on Tuesday mandated vaccination against Covid-19 for all residents over 60 years old as well as people with certain chronic illnesses.

- Russia’s nationwide paid holiday aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus came to an end Monday. Some regions are keeping the restrictions in place and many others are implementing digital passes showing proof of vaccination or recent Covid-19 recovery.

- QR codes proving one's vaccination continue to be valid for one year after vaccination, Russia's Health Ministry and Digital Development Ministry said Monday following reports that the validity period had changed to 6 months.