Corona vaccine: Russians advised not to consume alcohol for 60 days

Russians have been administered the Sputnik V vaccine for coronavirus since early this month. So far, about a lakh Russians have been successfully inoculated. The news is that the health authorities have reportedly advised vaccine recipients not to consume alcohol for 42 days after the administration of the vaccine, for it takes that much time for the vaccine to become effective,

“Things you cannot do when taking Russia’s vaccine Sputnik V: Drink alcohol for 14 days before getting it. Drink alcohol for 42 days AFTER. Plus you aren’t allowed to have a bath for 3 days after either! (sic),” an expert commented on Twitter. 

This has been comically described as a blow to the national character of Russia, which is known for its love for alcohol. “The average Russian consumes 15.1 litres of alcohol a year,” a Twitter user said, suggesting that it will be difficult for Russians to live in peace without consuming alcohol. 

This health advisory seems to be unique to the Russian vaccine. Pfizer, Moderna and Oxford vaccines haven’t been in the news for a similar reason.