Russians have started to report widespread cases of “mild COVID.” This form of the illness manifests with symptoms similar to those of a common cold, does not affect the lungs, and does not lead to hypoxia. However, it poses risks for exacerbating chronic illnesses and has potential health consequences, as explained by Elena Malinnikova, head of the Department of Virology at the RMAPO of the Ministry of Health, Doctor of Medical Sciences. In a conversation with the Public News Service, she urged Russians to adhere to coronavirus prevention guidelines, including wearing masks and self-isolating when symptoms appear.
The coronavirus continues to produce new strains, but people have developed immunity to the main variant, resulting in milder cases, the doctor clarified. However, this mild form of COVID, unlike other respiratory infections, has increased virulence, and those infected often do not take their symptoms seriously, leading to further spread of the disease. Nonetheless, even mild COVID is dangerous for elderly individuals with chronic heart and lung conditions, as well as for diabetics, those with obesity, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Complications may manifest later, with symptoms including weakness, poor appetite, sleep disturbances, and exacerbation of chronic illnesses.
“Now, it's essential to wash hands more frequently, disinfect surfaces, and conduct wet cleaning of premises,” the virologist recommended, also urging the maintenance of distance to prevent airborne transmission. Among the preventive measures, Malinnikova mentioned wearing masks, using drops and sprays for respiratory protection, and medication for prophylaxis.
It is worth noting that immunologist Mikhail Kostinov, head of the laboratory at the Mechnikov Research Institute of Vaccines and Sera, explained that mild COVID can have a prolonged course. He attributed the extended recovery time to many individuals already having compromised immunity due to localized outbreaks of respiratory illnesses. Moreover, COVID more frequently causes complications, with rehabilitation taking two to three weeks, while recovery from a typical respiratory infection usually takes no more than ten days.
Previously, scientists identified the duration of full recovery for young people suffering from long COVID.