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Listen to Story In the past few days, several reports claimed that there has been a rise in a mystery virus in Russia, causing severe respiratory symptoms. The reports claimed that people are witnessing Covid-like symptoms such as muscle weakness and prolonged high fever, with many coughing up blood. Amid the rising concerns, Russian health authorities have dismissed reports of the unidentified virus, with officials clarifying that no new pathogens have been detected and attributed the cases to common respiratory infections, according to a report by Newsweek.
Concerns over a potential outbreak surfaced after Russian media reported a mysterious illness affecting people in multiple cities. Initial reports claimed patients suffered from severe coughing, fever, and body aches, despite testing negative for Covid-19 and influenza. However, Russia’s public health watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor, rejected these claims: "There is no evidence of a new or unidentified virus circulating in the Russian Federation.
" Authorities said the cases are likely caused by Mycoplasma pneumonia, a bacterial infection that can mimic flu symptoms. The first claims of a mystery virus appeared on March 29 via SHOT, a Telegram news channel in Russia. Some patients reportedly developed severe coughing fits, lasting weeks, with one woman claiming she coughed up blood even after taking antibiotics.
Mainstream media picked up these reports, further fuelling speculation. Social media users also shared experiences of prolonged illness, with some stating their symptoms were worse than Covid-19. Although health officials have reassured the public, doubts remain.
Many Russians continue to distrust official statements, especially after concerns over transparency during the Covid-19 pandemic. Previous skepticism over Russia's vaccine rollout has contributed to ongoing wariness toward public health messaging, the Newsweek report stated. For now, Russian officials insist the situation is under control and that there is no need for alarm.
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