According to the Chinese state media CGTN, Russia has confirmed its first two cases of Wuhan virus on Jan. 31.

First cases of #coronavirus have been confirmed in #Russia, RT reports citing the Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatiana Golikova. pic.twitter.com/rgb6J9rv7f

— CGTN (@CGTNOfficial) January 31, 2020

First two confirmed cases

The Moscow Times reported that the two infected patients are Chinese citizens who have been isolated on Jan. 31.

The publication also revealed that 236 people have been identified as suspect cases in Russia, and they have been examined for any virus infection.

Of these, about 100 tested negative for the new coronavirus infection.

Moscow Times said that demand for masks has increased by 13 times in the country over the past week, since the proliferation of the virus in China.

Besides being urged to maintain good personal hygiene, the Russians have also been advised against loose hair, as well as kissing and hugging in public, according to Moscow Times.

Other measures

According to the New York Post, Russia has closed its border with China, and the country will stop issuing e-visas to Chinese nationals from Jan. 30.

Chinese tour groups have also been barred from entering Russia.

The Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, Tatyana Golikova, also said that the railway service between the countries will be limited, and trains will only shuttle between Moscow and Beijing.

Russia is also looking into quarantine measures for returning Russians, as well as facilitating the exit of Chinese citizens from Russia.

Over 600 Russians in Wuhan and Hubei will be given a choice to remain there or be flown back to Russia. Should they choose to return, they will have to be quarantined for 14 days.

From Feb. 1 onwards, Russia will also impose a travel ban on almost all flights from China in its latest attempt to curb the spread of the coronavirus into the country.

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