The coronavirus vaccine apparently comes with quite the caveat in Russia.
Officials are telling Russians getting the vaccine to avoid drinking alcohol for two months, according to TASS News Agency. Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Tatiana Golikova, said anyone getting the "Sputnik V" coronavirus vaccine should "refrain from visiting crowded places, wear face masks, use sanitizers, minimize contacts and refrain from drinking alcohol or taking immunosuppressant drugs."
The Moscow Times reported similar guidelines this week from the head of Russia’s consumer safety watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor. In fact, Anna Popova took it a step further in detailing Russians "should abstain from alcohol for nearly two months before and after immunization."
There, the vaccine will be given in two doses 21 days apart.
“It’s a strain on the body," she explained. "If we want to stay healthy and have a strong immune response, don't drink alcohol." The head of a state-run research center later clarified "a single glass of champagne never hurt anyone."
That’s quite a sacrifice for a nation known around the world for its drinking prowess.
Russian officials have reportedly started distribution of the "Sputnik V" vaccine, despite still undergoing safety trials. It’s said to be 95% effective against the virus.
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