Cumulative COVID-19 cases in Russia as of July 1, 2020, by date

Russia had over 654.4 thousand cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) as of July 1, 2020. Since the last update, this figure increased by less than 6.6 thousand. Russia accounted for the third highest number of cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) worldwide as of that date.

Debate about COVID-19 deaths in Russia

The number of deaths from the disease was significantly lower than in other countries most affected by the pandemic. Several foreign media sources, including New York Times and Financial Times, published articles suggesting that the official statistics on the COVID-19 death toll in Russia could be lowered. A narrow definition of a death from COVID-19 and a general increase in mortality in Moscow were pointed out while suggesting why actual death figures could be higher than reported.

Russian explanation of lower COVID-19 deaths

Experts and lawmakers from Russia provided several answers to the accusations. Among them were the fact that Russians timely reported symptoms to doctors, a high number of tests conducted, as well a higher herd immunity of the population compared to other countries. In a letter to the New York Times, Moscow’s health department head argued that even if all the additional death cases in the Russian capital in April 2020 were categorized as caused by the COVID-19, the city’s mortality rate from the disease would still be lower than in cities like New York or London.

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