Nikolai Sherstnev set the task of meeting the current demand for COVID-19 protective equipment
Applications from medical institutions for protective equipment are satisfied first, gowns and surgical suits were in stock by the end of April 2, and the production volumes of necessary items are increasing. Monitoring of pharmacy chains showed that masks were on sale in 70 percent of outlets. Now, these protective measures are being purchased to meet the needs of organizations whose employees interact with the public. For the general population, the primary protective measures are proper hand washing, use of antiseptics, and maintaining distance and isolation. All of us, citizens, are urged not to hoard masks and to use them in recommended cases, and to use them correctly.
An answer was given regarding the reasons for the price increase for masks. Different fabrics are used for them, gauze fabric is purchased in Russia, the price of raw materials is rising, and it depends on the purchase date. Currently, other types of fabrics and non-woven materials for their production are being tested within the republic, and the products are urgently submitted for approval of technical specifications. Nikolai Sherstnev set the task of meeting the current demand and forecasting the situation at least a month in advance.