Vladimir Putin is reportedly concerned about catching a flu infection within the Kremlin, amid an outbreak of Covid-19 and flu sweeping through the Russian government. The Russian president, known for closely guarding his health details, is said to be at risk from the outbreak.
A Telegram channel known for insider government rumours, VChK-OGPU, said that Putin's two most senior officials were ordered to go on sick leave after being infected. Anton Vaino, the head of presidential administration, and his deputy Sergei Kiriyenko were struck by the illness after reportedly failing tests, according to the Telegram channel.
Quarantine rules for officials
Anyone meeting with Putin is required to have a coronavirus test, and he is said to require even extensive quarantines for officials. A post on the channel said: 'According to the Kremlin's version, Vaino and Kiriyenko 'failed' COVID and flu tests. These tests are still required for those who meet with Vladimir Putin.'
The Russian president is reportedly neurotic about the risk of Covid and how it could trigger other health problems. Health rumours regularly swirl around the 73-year-old, particularly whenever Putin is not seen in public for a while.
History of health speculation
In May, eagle-eyed viewers questioned his unusual walk during a state visit to China as the president was seen taking one slightly limping step. But Putin is believed to have become an expert in navigating speculations about his health, things that have been around for more than a decade as he ages.
Rumours about Putin's health include Parkinson's disease, heart attack and various cancers, on top of plastic surgery and use of body-doubles to mask his death. His representatives have also laughed off claims that he is using a body double.
Nuclear warning and Duma address
The news comes after Russia made a nuclear weapon warning to the UK and Nato because of a fictional plot line in a new Sky One miniseries, The Wargame. The series features real-life politicians like Michael Gove and Nicola Sturgeon in made-up roles leading the UK through a fictional Russian attack, and an ensuing plan to target Kaliningrad in retaliation.
The storyline appears to have gotten under the Kremlin's skin as the official UK Telegram channel posted a thinly veiled threat. It said: 'Those advocating plans to blockade or strike Kaliningrad should have no illusions about the consequences. Any British or NATO military action against Russian territory would be met with a response using all means at Russia's disposal, including nuclear weapons.'
Putin spoke in front of the newly elected Russian parliament today as he officially opened the ninth session of the Duma. He appeared stern but seemingly in good health as he told MPs Russia 'cannot run around the world humiliating themselves' and 'begging for handouts.'
