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The review focuses on the means of personal protection of people from blood-sucking arthropods, mainly from Ixodidae ticks. Individual (personal) protection of humans is an important component of nonspecific prevention of natural-focal vector-borne diseases. The paper considers statistical data describing the level of significance and relevance of the information about the infections transmitted by ticks, for instance, tick-borne viral encephalitis, tick-borne borreliosis etc. Presented are the characteristics of different groups of personal protection means: insectoacaricidal, repellent, and insectoacaricidal-repellent ones. Indicators of their effectiveness are assessed; their practical use, as well as the features of special protective clothing and the necessity of its application is described. The toxicity of protective clothing is reduced through a lining fabric, local inserts of fabric with insectoacaricidal impregnation and the use of underwear. Different interpretation of the term “repellent” in the domestic and foreign literature, and also two different approaches (“Eastern” and “Western”) to the design and manufacture of personal protection means for people against attacks of blood-sucking arthropods, including Ixodidae ticks, in Russia and Western Europe countries and the USA is discussed. The paper highlights the effect of different pyrethroid groups on the behavioral reactions of ticks. It is shown that in the Russian Federation the use of permethrin is prohibited for the treatment of protective clothing against blood-sucking arthropods, in particular against the taiga tick Ixodes persulcatus, which is the main vector of dangerous infections across the major part of the country (in the east of the European part, the Urals, Siberia and the Far East).

Background. The ongoing pandemic of a new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) determines the relevance of the analysis of epidemiological patterns of SARS-CoV-2 spread among the population of the Russian Federation.Aim — study of the manifestations of the epidemic process of COVID-19 in the Russian Federation in 2020–2022.Materials and methods. A retrospective epidemiological analysis of the incidence of COVID-19 in the Russian Federation was carried out from 03/30/2020 to 04/24/2022. The data from the Rospotrebnadzor report No. 970 “Information on cases of infectious diseases in persons with suspected new coronavirus infection”, information portal Stopcoronavirus.rf, etc. were used. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was confirmed by real-time RT-PCR.Results and discussion. The analysis of the manifestations of the epidemic process of COVID-19 in the Russian Federation in 2020–2022 showed the presence of two stages which differed depending on the influence of the biological factor and the ongoing anti-epidemic measures. There was a pronounced trend in the development of the epidemic process, starting from megacities (Moscow, Moscow region and St. Petersburg), which are major transport hubs and centers of migration activity of the population, to the regions of the Russian Federation. The SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity has been shown to decrease with each subsequent cycle of the rise in the incidence of COVID-19 against the background of the increased contagiousness of the virus.Conclusion. As a result of the study, risk areas (megacities) and risk groups were identified.

Objective – integral analysis of effectiveness of anti-epidemic measures applied towards employees of the Amur gas processing plant assigned for rotational work under conditions of COVID-19 pandemic.Materials and methods. Sero-epidemiological study included a questionnaire survey of 1461 workers who arrived through the “clean corridor” in the Amur Region, followed by sampling of biological material (blood and respiratory smears). Testing of blood sera for the presence of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 of two classes (IgM and IgG) was carried out applying enzyme immunoassay. Using PCR, respiratory smears were examined for the presence of the agent RNA in them. Statistical processing of the results obtained was carried out using conventional methodsResults and discussion. The presence of antibodies of the IgG class was revealed in (4.7±0.55) % of cases. In a small cohort (1.7±0.34 %) of practically healthy individuals, asymptomatic infection was detected, confrmed either by a positive PCR result (0.76±0.23 %), or by the detection of IgM antibodies (1.0±0.08 %). On the basis of the study carried out by the Federal Service for Surveillance in the Sphere of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Welfare on August 01, 2020, “Temporary recommendations on the procedure for admitting to work on a rotational basis under the risk of COVID-19 spread in the Amur Region” were approved. These recommendations set out the algorithm for observation of incoming workers and the order for triage of shift workers after testing by ELISA and PCR. The results of the study demonstrate the effectiveness of anti-epidemic measures related to ensuring the procedure for admission to work on a rotational basis under the risks of the spread of COVID-19.

The mobile complexes of the specialized anti-epidemic teams (SAET) of the Rospotrebnadzor (mounted on the platform of auto chassis) have been actively involved in implementation of operational measures to counter COVID‑19 in the Russian Federation, aimed at management and conducting of diagnostic studies. Analysis of the activities of mobile SAET in Moscow and Makhachkala made it possible to formulate the basic principles of organizing their work in the most difficult period of negative development of the situation, increasing incidence and insufficient readiness of laboratory bases for mass research: tactics of advance actions, flexibility in using the potential of SAET mobile complexes, monitoring over the implementation of anti-contamination measures at all stages of PCR analysis and the development of a consultative and methodological (training) aspects of activities of the team specialists. The use of mobile SAETs of the Rospotrebnadzor once again demonstrated their significance as a universal tool to counter epidemics of infectious diseases.

Objective: comparative study of the etiological structure of community-acquired pneumonia in SARSCoV-2 “+”and SARS-CoV-2 “-“ patients who sought help from medical organizations in the Rostov Region.Materials and methods. Biological material from 508 patients diagnosed with community-acquired pneumonia who were on outpatient treatment or in hospitals in Rostov-on-Don was studied. Verification of respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 RNA, as well as M. pneumoniae, C. pneumoniae, and L. pneumophila was performed by polymerase chain reaction in nasopharyngeal smears. Bacteriological analysis of sputum was carried out using differential diagnostic media, identification of isolated pathogens was carried out using time-of-flight mass spectrometry on Autoflex (Bruker Daltonics) with BioTyper 3.0 software.Results and discussion. During the spread of a new coronavirus infection in the Rostov Region, the main etiological agent of community-acquired pneumonia is the new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Specific character of pneumonia in patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 is a higher incidence of mixed infection of both viral and bacterial etiology. Against the background of detection of a new coronavirus infection in patients with pneumonia, cases of detection of other types of coronaviruses have been registered (HKU-1,OC43, HL-63 and 229Е). The most common etiological agent of bacterial pneumonia in patients was Streptococcus spp., both in patients with COVID-19-associated pneumonia and in patients who tested negative for SARS-CoV-2. Coronavirus patients represent a high risk group for the development of mycotic lung lesions.

The review presents the analysis of the data on the spread of COVID-19 around the world and in Russia available as of June 15, 2020. Dynamics and geographical dissemination of COVID-19 in the Russian Federation is considered. The structure of incidence by gender and age is presented. Assessment of the key epidemiological parameters (morbidity rates and lethality) is provided. The effectiveness of the response measures conducted to control COVID-19 is discussed.

The review analyses the information on the epidemiological situation on COVID-19 around the world. Presented is the assessment of the major epidemiological parameters (basic reproductive rate, lethality, incubation period, and serial interval). Demonstrated is the share of severe cases among different age groups and the general structure of incidence by the severity of clinical course. The paper provides the classification of response models internationally depending upon the complex of measures undertaken at different stages of epidemic process. Reviewed are the key response actions to control the COVID-19 transmission in different countries of the world and the Russian Federation and given is the assessment of their effectiveness.

The review summarizes the main results of a five-year cooperation activities of the specialists from the Russian Federation and the Republic of Guinea in the fight against dangerous infectious diseases. From the very beginning of the Ebola virus disease epidemic in West Africa, Russia has been actively involved in international efforts to control it. The scientific and technical interaction of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Guinea, the main components of which are strengthening of the laboratory and hospital facilities, training of specialists, can be divided into two stages. The first one (during the period of the epidemic) is sending to Guinea a group of Russian specialists and mobile laboratories from the mobile complex of the specialized anti-epidemic team of the Rospotrebnadzor and opening of the first in the Republic of Guinea inpatient infectious disease hospital for Ebola patients. The second one (after the end of the epidemic) is the creation of a high-tech Center, which allows performing both diagnostic and scientific researches of a wide range. In the course of implementation of the programs on assistance to the Republic of Guinea on combating infectious diseases, public-private partnership mechanisms with UC RUSAL were involved, which made it possible for Russia to participate in the eradication of the Ebola epidemic and the subsequent strengthening of Guinea’s national potential in combating biological threats as efficiently as possible. The five-year interaction between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Guinea resulted in the build-up of Guinea’s national potential to counter biological threats, the creation of laboratory and hospital resources that meet the needs for the elimination of epidemiological threats caused by particularly dangerous infectious diseases, not only in the Republic of Guinea, but also in neighboring countries of West Africa, development of scientific and technical cooperation aimed at improving the system of epidemiological surveillance of communicable diseases in the Republic of Guinea.

In 2018, between June14 and July 15, final matches of the FIFA World Cup-2018 were held in 11 cities of the Russian Federation. That event was the biggest mass event with international participation in the history of Russia. During the period, in the process of sanitary-epidemiological welfare provision, developed earlier scintific-and-practical achievementds for prevention of emergency situations of sanitary-epidemiologoical character were implemented to the fullest extent. Objective of the study – analysis of evolution of the developed in Russia scientifically-substantiated approaches in the sphere of sanitary-epidemiological welfare provision of mass events and aggregation of the results of their implementation during preparation and holding of FIFA World-Cup-2018. Utilized were information-analytical materials from the Rospotrebnadzor Administrations by the constituent entities of the Russian Federatuion, Centers of Hygiene and Epidemiology in the entities of the Russian Federation, RusRAPI “Microbe” of the Rospotrebnadzor, data from Organizing Committee “Russia-2018”, Federal Turism Agency, information published in periodical press. Scientifically substantiated model of sanitary-epidemiological welfare provision during mass events was developed in the Russian Federation. It includes expert evaluation and quantification of potential epidemic hazard of mass event which allows for targeted prophylactic and anti-epidemic measures with rationalized loads and adequate frequency of repeat. The paper discusses the complex of measures carried out during preparation and holding of FIFA World Cup-2018 by the functional areas: sanitary protection of the territory; epidemiological surveillnace over relevant anthropozoonotic, natural-focal zoonotic, sapronotic infectious diseaseas; sanitary surveillance over communal facilities, catering facilities, sites of accomodation of the participants and guests; sanitary-hygienic monitoring of ambient environment objects; provision of anti-epidemic preparadeness and readiness of the Rospotrebnadzor authorities and institutions and medical organizations; provision of readiness of laboratory facilities; involvement of additional forces and capacities and interagency cooperation in response to emergency situations of sanitary-epidemiological character.

The epidemic rise in the incidence of West Nile fever (WNF) in the season of 2018 was observed in the countries of the European Union (EU) and bordering states and exceeded the values of all previously recorded epidemic rises of 2010–2012. An increase in the incidence rate was registered in the USA and Canada, however, it did not exceed the indicators of epidemic rises of 2007–2012. In the territory of the Russian Federation, the WNF epidemiological process became more intense mainly in the territory of the Southern and North Caucasian Federal Districts. In general, in Russia, the incidence rates were 2 times lower than the average annual rates, but significantly exceeded those of 2017. The epidemic process had a number of peculiarities in the seasonality, the structure of morbidity and the clinical manifestation of WNF. Genotyping of the isolated WNV RNA fragments from clinical and biological material showed that I, II and IV West Nile virus genotypes were circulating in the European part of Russia. Forecast of epidemic situation development in 2019 reveals further increase in the incidence and does not exclude the possibility of a significant localincrease of WNF incidence in certain regions of Russia.

The causes of emergence and development of pneumonic plague outbreak in 2017 on Madagascar were analyzed. Summarized were the literature data, characterizing the spatial and biocoenotic structure of natural plague focus on Madagascar, assessed were the risk factors of plague infection among rural and urban population of the island, as well as the properties of Yersinia pestis strains isolated there in the XX century. It is substantiated that the distinctive type of plague outbreaks on Madagascar is a rural one. It is demonstrated that one of the main causes of wide spread of plague in 2017 is importation of the infection from central regions of the Republic of Madagascar into big cities with further formation of multiple epidemic foci. Confirmed was the circulation of Y. pestis strains that belong to the third branch of irradiation of oriental biovar (1.ORI3). Discussed are the issues of diagnostics and treatment of plague in epidemic foci in the territory of the Republic of Madagascar. The evidence is provided to the fact that the plague outbreak in 2017 on Madagascar is the consequence of a lower surveillance level, first and foremost undervaluation of specific and non-specific prophylaxis capacities regarding this infection.

Objective of the study is to assess the effectiveness of anti-mosquito measures (against Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopiсtus mosquitoes) in the territory of Sochi and determine the ways to improve the tactics of insecticide, including larvicide, treatments.Materials and methods. The monitoring data were analyzed in 156 points of mosquito numbers counting, 57 of which were located at sites that were subjected to treatment, including repeated ones. The count of mosquitoes was carried out by the “observer” method within 20 minutes. Statistical processing of the data was carried out using the “Past” package. Differences in mean values were calculated using the Mann-Wilcoxon-Whitney test. At the points of detection of Ae. aegypti or Ae. albopictus mosquitoes additional targeted anti-mosquito treatments were carried out. Results and conclusions. In 2016, an extremely low numbers of mosquitoes Ae. aegypti were observed. Abundance of mosquitoes Ae. albopictus is described as “high”: more than 11,000 specimens were collected in the territory stretching from the state border with the Republic of Abkhazia in the east to the city of Novorossiysk, inclusive, to the west.The highest numbers of mosquitoes Ae. albopictus were registered in the territory of cemeteries. Performed anti-mosquito activities demonstrated their effectiveness in urbanized areas and some park zones with a high numbers of permanently residing population and tourists due to higher treatment density, small number of places favorable for the breeding of mosquitoes Ae. albopictus directly in these territories and nearby. To prevent the spread of mosquitoes Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus in the territory of epidemically significant objects from neighboring sites, monitoring of their numbers should be continued throughout the city and in all potential habitats. The continuation of monitoring activities across the entire Black Sea coast remains a topical issue due to the possibility of further expansion of the mosquitoes areal.

The article presents the results of bioassays investigation by the specialists of the Center for Special Laboratory Diagnostics of Particularly Dangerous and Exotic Infectious Diseases, isolated during 2002–2015, obtained from deceased people suspected for rabies virus infection. Outlined are the main challenges of working with the received samples of biological material from dead people and ways of handling these issues. Put forward are the pressing problems of epizootic and epidemiological bias that require comprehensive solutions on the part of healthcare authorities and the veterinary service of the Russian Federation. Given are the results of the laboratory-diagnostic activities of the Center for Special Laboratory Diagnostics of Particularly Dangerous and Exotic Infectious Diseases, which indicate that the applied methods of isolation and identification of the rabies pathogen allow for efficient and in-time diagnosis of the disease.

Presented are summarized data on anthrax epidemiological and epizootiological situation in the Russian Federation. The causes of the unstable situation are analyzed. Characterized are modern clinical and epidemiological features of anthrax infection, as well as key areas for improvement of surveillance and control of anthrax in the current conditions based on a systematic approach and effective interdepartmental cooperation.

Presented are the order and features of organization of operative diagnostic and monitoring studies of the material during the anthrax outbreak in the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District in 2016. Characterized are the main directions of the laboratory base work. Represented are the results of laboratory studies of various materials (clinical samples, material from animals, samples of environmental objects) for the presence of Bacillus anthracis.

The organizational peculiarities of anti-epidemic measures during the anthrax outbreak in the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District in 2016 are presented. Complex of these measures provided for anthrax patients active identification and hospitalization, preventive immunization and emergency antibiotic prophylaxis of risk groups, vaccination of reindeer, utilization of fallen animals. Disinfection, deratization and desinsection measures were performed. Native residents were evacuated from infection focus and sensitization campaign among the population was carried out. Organized were sanitary inspection stations and temporary accommodation points. Due to operational implementation of anti-epidemic measures in the interagency format the anthrax focus was localized within one incubation period.

36 cases of human infection with anthrax, manifested in various clinical forms, were registered in the territory of Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District in 2016. Cutaneous anthrax was characterized by emergence of carbuncle, however objective difficulties of clinical diagnostics, associated with atypicality of clinical manifestations (erysipeloid form of the disease, crusting) were outlined. Clinical manifestations of oropharyngeal anthrax were severe febrile reaction, intoxication, edema of subcutaneous fat on face and neck, and lesions of mucous membranes. Intestinal anthrax was diagnosed in one patient and characterized by the acute onset followed by faintness, loss of appetite, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Based on the results of carried out investigations, put forward were the measures on optimization of approaches to clinical diagnostics of anthrax.

In 2016, in the territory of Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District an outbreak of anthrax took place, 2650 reindeers were infected. As a consequence of contacts with affected and fallen animals, 36 cases of human infection occurred, of which one was fatal. Performed full-extent complex of anti-epidemic, anti-epizootic, and preventive measures, prompt organization of operations at the regional level allowed for localization of large-scale anthrax focus within the minimum possible time. Based on the lessons learned, identified were the ways to further enhancement of epidemiological surveillance and prophylaxis of anthrax under current conditions.

Objective of the study is to sum-up the results of prophylactic (anti-epidemic) measures associated with elimination of epidemic focus in Kosh-Agach Region of the Republic of Altai in 2016. Materials and methods. Utilized were the data of reporting and source documentation from Altai Plague Control Station, Rospotrebnadzor Administration in the Republic of Altai, RusRAPI “Microbe”, and Irkutsk RAPI. Results and conclusions. It is pointed out that carried out in 2016 complex of organizational, anti-epidemic, and sanitary-prophylactic activities against plague is the importnant stage of rehabilitation of Gorno-Altai high-mountain natural plague focus, the final goal of which is maximally possible decrement of risks of primary human infection with plague, and in case of occurrence of such – performing of prompt response measures on localization and elimination of epidemic focus. It has been substantiated that for epidemic risk minimization in 2017 it is necessary to continue prophylactic vaccination, desinsection and deratization in the areas of predictive epizootic situation aggravation, which is contained in “Complex Action Plan of the Rospotrebnadzor Institutions for Sanitation and Rehabilitation of Gorno-Altai high-mountain natural plague focus in Kosh-Agach Region of the Altai Republic in 2017”. It is also necessary to provide for implementation of the Program on lowering risks of importation from cross-border Sailyugemsky natural focus and spread of plague in the territory of the Russian Federation, within the frames of RF Government Order No 1864-p, dated 05.09.2016.

The aim of the work was to develop a kit for detection of IgM and IgG antibodies to Ebola virus in ELISA.Materials and methods. Ebola virus strain Zaire H.sapiens-wt/GIN/2015/Kalidie-Kindia-1022 grown on cell culture was used as antigen.Results and conclusions. The kit was used by the Rospotrebnadzor SAET team in its work in Guinea while investigating cases during Ebola fever epidemics. It was established that specific IgG antibodies persisted in Ebola fever survivors for 2 years. Application of this kit in the laboratory diagnostics permits ELISA to become the main and confirmatory laboratory method of Ebola fever detection.

Epidemic outspread of Zika fever has given WHO authority to declare emergency situation in the sphere of international healthcare. Major risks for the Russian Federation are associated with the import of the disease by persons, infected in epidemiologically hazardous territory, or import of Zika virus vectors by transport means of international traffic. In this context, developed and normatively regimented is the complex of measures aimed at prevention of Zika virus disease, comprising activities to control import of the infection from enzootic territories, monitoring over the vectors of virus, Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus , and procedure for disinfection operations. Developed and introduced into practice is a home-made preparation for laboratory diagnostics and detection of Zika virus RNA using PCR. The article covers the issue of possible dissemination of the vectors in southern regions of Russia in view of climate warming. It is concluded that nowadays probability of local Zika virus transmission in “human-mosquito” cycle is extremely low and no complications of epidemiological situation on arboviral Ae. aegypti- and Ae. albopictus- borne infections are predicted.

This article provides the basic information on the current epidemiological situation on Zika fever across the world, the data on ZIKV global distribution, its main transmission routes, peculiarities of infection manifestations, and major approaches in the laboratory diagnostics. Taking into account the significant complication of the epidemiological situation on Zika fever in North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean, as well as the tendency towards the expansion of the areals of ZIKV effective vectors, identified are the key priority tasks to minimize epidemiological risks of Zika fever in the Russian Federation.

Objective of the study is to characterize the case of human plague in the territory of Gorno-Altaisk high-mountain natural focus in 2015 and to analyze the initiated measures, associated with localization and elimination of epidemic focus. Materials and methods. Utilized are the data contained in reporting and source (primary) documentation of the FGHI “Altai Plague Control Station”, records of the Rospotrebnadzor Administration in the Republic of Altai, and information collected by the FGHI “Irkutsk Research Anti-Plague Institute”. Results and conclusions. Human infection occurred as a result of gray marmot dressing, which was caught in the Elangash River-Valley, against the background of unfavorable epizootic situation, caused by proliferation of the plague agent of main subspecie in the territory of the focus. Clinical material investigations, performed by means of bacteriological and molecular-genetic methods, showed negative findings. Applying serological method within the system of indirect hemagglutination test (IHAT)/antigen neutralization test (ANT), in blood sera, obtained at the time of hospitalization, low-titred specific antibodies to plague microbe (recognized as post-vaccinal ones) were detected. In blood serum sample, obtained 7 days later, identified were high-titer antibodies, which allowed for confirmation of clinical diagnosis - “bubonic plague”. Due to efficient cooperation between Rospotrebnadzor institutions and medical facilities, as well as municipal authorities it was possible to avoid further development of anthropogenic transmission of plague; to localize and eliminate epidemic outbreak of this dangerous infectious disease in Kosh-Agach Region of the Republic of Altai in the shortest possible time.

Reviewed are the lessons learned from cooperation between Rospotrebnadzor institutions in the provision of epidemiological welfare on plague under aggravation of epizootic situation in the territory of the Pre-Caspian sandy natural plague focus in 2014. Plague control measures combined epizootiological and epidemiological monitoring, specific and non-specific prophylaxis, training activities for medical and veterinary officers, instructional advice for medical facilities on matters of infection prevention, and sensitization campaign. Furthermore, vaccinated against plague were 4460 people, field disinsection over 50.5 km2 area was performed, as well as field deratization - 89.4 km2, township disinsection - 257.3 thous. m2, and township deratization - 329.1 thous. m2. Financial expenses on prophylactic (anti-epidemic) activities amounted to 23265.8 thousand rubles. Outlined was viability of preventive planning and prophylactic measures in the territories with forecasted aggravation of epizootic situation in natural plague foci of the Russian Federation.

Q fever poses a problem, both in the Russian Federation and abroad. Thereat, a new base normative document, sanitary-epidemiological regulations on coxiellosis prevention, has been developed and approved in the Russian Federation. For the first time ever in the world history, a regulated surveillance of community-acquired pneumonias, which will help to improve diagnostics of this pathology, has been introduced in our country. Quality of Q fever control directly depends on the laboratory facilities, qualification of the personnel, and coordination of interagency cooperation. All these factors provide for the prompt assessment of the situation, in-time anti-epidemic measures, and forecasting of the events, which ensures the biological security of Russian Federation.

Integration of the Crimean Federal District (CFD) into the Russian Federation in March, 2014 predetermined the necessity to organize preventive activities, aimed at the provision of sanitary epidemiological welfare in the region. The paper observes the results of work of the specialized anti-epidemic teams, affiliated to the Stavropol Research Anti-Plague Institute and Russian Research Anti-Plague Institute “Microbe”, on the provision of assistance to CFD Sanitary Epidemiological Service (SES) in operational etiological investigation of infectious diseases outbreaks. Performed is the laboratory analysis of 2407 clinical and environmental samples. 676 tests out of 11518 have showed positive (non-standard) results. Given are the recommendations concerning optimization of work of the CFD SES facilities.

At present EVD epidemic, which claimed the lives of more than 10000 people, is still underway in West Africa Countries. Promptness and quality of laboratory diagnostics, alongside with delivered anti-epidemic measures predetermine efficacy of Ebola response operation. Due to a lack of means for the specific prophylaxis and treatment of the disease, asymptomatic patients are discharged from hospitals, based on criteria recommended by WHO, which might be insufficient. Viral RNA is detected in different clinical samples taken from the patients even at the advanced stages of convalescence, which requires essential investigation of peculiarities of Ebola persistence in various biological fluids. The article contains the data on the studies of biological samples, obtained from a female patient diagnosed with Ebola virus disease, applying various methods and techniques.

Analysis of 5 Ebola virus Zaire 2014 isolates passaged in cell cultures or in mice, demonstrated presence of unique mutations in the genome RNA in some cases. All identified nucleotide substitutions are singular, stochastically located, synonymous or fall within non-coding regions. Variability level of nucleotide sequences is equal to 0.005-0.01 %, suggesting extremely high genetic stability of Ebola virus Zaire, the causative agent of the outbreak. Confirmed is suppression of non-synonymous mutations accumulation in ebolavirus variants in the course of time. Detected are alterations in glycosilation sites and mucin-like domain of ebolavirus glycoprotein.

The current outbreak of the Ebola fever in West Africa is unprecedented in terms of its scale. As of today, 27550 suspected cases and 11235 deaths have been reported. The outbreak differs from previous epidemics in terms of epidemiological and clinical progression of the disease. The article covers several epidemiological issues related to Ebola virus disease by the example of the Guinean outbreak, which has been plaguing the country since 2014. Given is the preliminary clinical analysis of the medical observations, performed in the Research and Diagnostic Centre of Epidemiology and Microbiology built by RUSAL. Regarded are epidemiological and clinical features of the Ebola virus disease (EVD) in 83 patients, who were admitted to RUSAL Treatment Center since March 6th till June 30th, 2015. In 28 of the patients, EVD diagnosis was laboratory confirmed. The principle assessment criteria are: morbidity rate, lethality index, gender, age, occupation, time since the onset of the disease until hospitalization, an average duration of the stay at the hospital, complaints, symptoms, complications, and the therapy provided.

An estimated scope of measures, aimed at the prevention of Ebola virus disease importation and transmission in the territory of the Russian Federation, targets the maximum level of hazard to the population. It has a complex interagency character, whereby the Federal service for surveillance in the sphere of consumers rights protection and human welfare functions as coordinator and principal executing agency. The measures affect the following areas: regulatory compliance and methodological support, sanitary-quarantine control reinforcement at the entry points on the state border of the Russian Federation, strengthening of anti-epidemic preparedness of the Rospotrebnadzor and public healthcare institutions and authorities, including operational preparedness of the laboratory facilities, information support within the framework of epidemiological surveillance, and involvement in the activities under the international collaboration for epidemic response and control. Practices have been completed as regards series of actions conducted from the time of the case identification and further on; evacuation of the infected and suspected individuals, procedures for sanitary disinfection, interventions in the relation to contact persons, and readiness for anti-epidemic measures performance.

Analyzed is the management system for laboratory diagnostics of infectious diseases during the XXII Olympics and XI Paralympics, 2014 in Sochi. Reviewed is piece of work, executed in the pre-Olympic period as regards provision of laboratory facilities deployed for clinical material investigation, development of normative and regulatory documentation which considers peculiarities of the situation, identification of diagnostic capacities of the laboratories, and forecasting of the probable volume of laboratory studies by reference to various groups of infections. Put forward is the procedure for arrangement of work at the different stages of laboratory diagnostics, cooperation and response in case of emergency situation in the sphere of sanitary-epidemiological welfare of the population. Discussed is the role of geo-information system and current means of monitoring over epidemiological situation in the participating states and in the region of the Olympics in laboratory support organization.

The territory of the Crimean Peninsula is an endemic one as regards various natural-focal infections. The paper contains the data on epizootiological survey of 8 administrative regions of the Crimean Federal District (CFD). Carried out has been small mammals and Ixodidae ticks census. Identified is their species composition. Performed have been the field samples collection and laboratory studies for the presence of bacterial and viral infection agents. Established is the fact that H. marginatum is a dominating species among the ticks, collected during the spring season, while the house mouse prevails among the small mammals. As for the autumn collection of samples, the dominating species are H. punctata and common vole, respectively. Laboratory investigation results indicate the circulation of the agents of Ku fever, tick-borne spotty fever, Ixodidae tick-borne borreliosis, human granulocytic anaplasmosis, monocytic ehrlichiosis, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome and leptospirosis.

Provided are the data on the management and carrying out of the laboratory control over the hot-water supply systems of the sports venues and accommodation areas for the presence of Legionella pneumophila during the XXII Olympics and XI Paralympics in Sochi, 2014. Inspected have been 105 facilities. The samples from 37 of them showed positive. L. pneumophila DNA concentration varies between 2.19·102 and 3.92·107 genome equivalents (g.e.)/l. By means of bacteriological investigation detected have been legionella colonies in the water supply systems of 16 facilities, at one of the items - the loading is over 1·104 colony-forming units/l. Performed has been comparative analysis of the results obtained using PCR assay and bacteriological test. Based on the genotyping of 7 isolated strains serogroup 1 and 2 strains of 2-14 serogroups it is concluded that L. pneumophila strains circulating in the resort town Sochi are genetically heterogeneous.

Work purpose. The analysis of epidemiological features of outbreak of a shigellosis in Tkuarchal in the Republic Abkhazia in 2013 and efficiency of actions for its elimination. Results. The waterway of transfer of the activator with formation of a large number of the centers of an infection, including family was realized. It is established that an causal factor of a disease is Shigella sonnei I, II. Differences in a plasmid profile of the allocated strain (existence of two additional plasmids - pBS512 S. boydii and pO26-Vir E. coli H30) that, apparently, provided the raised strain pathogenicity, and, respectively, allowed to cause large flash of a shigellosis in Tkuarchal in the Republic Abkhazia. conclusion. The anti-epidemic actions for localization and elimination of epidemic outbreak directed on elimination of a water factor of transfer of the activator with the subsequent rupture of a contact and household way of distribution of an infection provided gradual decrease in incidence and elimination of outbreak.

The paper contains the data on the morbidity rates as regards natural-focal infectious diseases and results of epizootiological monitoring in the locality of the XXII Olympic and XI Paralympic Winter Games-2014 in Sochi. It is demonstrated that the significant ones in the infectious disease incidence chart are hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, Ixodidae tick-borne borrelioses, pseudotuberculosis, intestinal yersiniosis, leptospiroses, rabies, rickettsiosis, and tularemia. Represented are the data on the peculiarities of a number of regional pathogenic strains. Noted is fact that complex activities, which were carried out by the agencies and institutions of the Rospotrebnadzor, Krasnodar Territory and Sochi resort-town Administration, allowed for the stabilization of the situation on natural-focal infections.

The paper contains the data on the management of work of the specialized anti-epidemic team (SAET) of the Stavropol Anti-Plague Institute during the XXII Olympic and XI Paralympic Winter Games (2014) in Sochi. Reviewed are the issues of SAET’s preparedness provision: staffing of the team, facility equipping, fitting with diagnostic preparations, professional training and development in view of the mass event mission - participation in interagency exercises, educational courses, seminars, and response drills. For the first time ever, SAET’s reinforced personnel comprised 60 specialists from research institutions and some other Rospotrebnadzor Organization. Provided was preparedness to perform laboratory diagnostics and indicate the agents of 82 nosological forms, including exotic ones. The team conducted investigations at the premises of the two facilities and bacteriological laboratory mounted on the trucks.

Laboratory diagnostics of plague was carried out in compliance with valid operational guidelines and regulations. But its peculiarity consisted in the performance of diagnostic investigations secondary to antimicrobial therapy with application of preparations characterized by the expressed activity towards gram-negative microorganisms, including the agent of plague (ceftriaxone, ciprolet, and amikacin). The studies revealed that under antibiotic treatment during the early phase of infection the most effective method for the laboratory plague diagnostics was PCR. Based on the results of the assay it was possible to establish not only provisional, but also the final diagnosis in a patient. Obtained was genetic characteristics of the strains isolated from the patient and the marmot, withdrawn at the patient’s place, using techniques of molecular-genetic analysis, in particular PCR, multilocus VNTR, and multilocus and genome-wide sequencing. Thereupon the strains were attributed to antique biovar of the main subspecies of plague agent. In addition, close relation to Y. pestis of the main subspecies isolated in the same focus in 2012 and to the strains from Mongolian Altai and Tuvinian mountain focus was determined based on phylogenetic analysis of the isolates.

For the first time ever since the discovery of the Gorno-Altaisk high-mountain natural focus in 1961, registered has been a case of human plague infection. It occurred in the consequence of the grey marmot cutting that was caught in the territory of one of the persistent epizootic regions of the natural plague focus. The outbreak was localized and eliminated following complex anti-epidemic measures, including medical treatment of the patient; identification, isolation and management of the contact persons, both to the patient and marmot; withdrawal and disposal of marmots’ carcasses, obtained during unauthorized commercial hunting; specific and non-specific prophylaxis of the disease. Also for the first time ever received have been the evidences of concurrent circulation of the strains, subspecies Y. pestis ssp pestis and Y. pestis ssp. altaica in the regions of cohabitation of Pallas’ pika (Ochotona pallasi), Siberian souslik (Citellus undulatus), and grey marmot. Specified is the necessity to reconsider the tactics of epizootiological plague monitoring in enzootic territories where circulation of various Y. pestis subspecies is registered.

It is supposed that after exposure to impacts of the large-scale high water on the background of chronic persistent stress, immune activity of the organism is decreased, which may lead to sanitary-epidemiological implications and contribute to morbidity rate increment as regards a number of relevant nosological entities among the population of the devastated territory. Statistically community-acquired pneumonias are still one of the key factors for infectious morbidity, hospitalization and mortality rate in the region. They are indicators for organization of medical assistance to the population. Therewith, evaluated has been morbidity rate in reference to acute respiratory viral infections and community-acquired pneumonias in the Amur Region for the past three years, assessed has been epidemiological situation throughout 2013. Morbidity rate as regards community-acquired pneumonias in the Amur Region over the surveyed period (2010-2013) has turned out to be two times higher than the national one, and 60-70 % - than that throughout the Far Eastern Federal district. In order to avoid distribution of the acute respiratory viral infections, flue, and community-acquired pneumonias and epidemic foci formation in the territory of the Amur Region in the post-flooding period, established is a complex of sanitary-anti-epidemic (prophylactic) and remedial measures. Besides of that, identified are the main areas of activities aimed at stabilization of the situation as a long term strategy.

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) ranges among the most widely spread emerging infectious diseases both in the Russian Federation and around the world. It is one of the main factors contributing to morbidity and mortality among the population. Adult cohort suffers from community-acquired pneumonia to the highest degree. Lethal cases are often registered in the active working age. According to the statistics morbidity rate for CAP in Russia reaches 14–15 %, while actual value is significantly higher, than the one under record. Total number is approximately 1,5 million cases per year. Base number of infections is accounted for bacterial pneumonia. However considerable part of it is caused by other microorganisms, including viruses. Up-to-date community-acquired pneumonia is of a great epidemiological and clinical value, and development of epidemiological surveillance system is an urging issue, that might allow for elaboration of the methodology for carrying out proper monitoring and preventive measures.

Consideration is given to the experience of cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Guinea in the matter of Ebola fever response. Outlined are the challenging issues regarding scientific support of preventive activities. Provided is a brief characteristic of Pasteur Institute of Guinea as a unique platform for research activities. Covered are the legal aspects of collaboration and priority areas for the development of common initiatives in the sphere of epidemiological monitoring. Identified are the stages of material reinforcement and medical stuff capacity building, including training of specialists with a view to the establishment of effective system for epidemiological surveillance.

The paper examines the experience of employee surveys foodservice, food contact for the presence of pathogens of acute intestinal infections during the XXII Olympic Winter Games and XI Paralympic Winter Games of 2014 in Sochi. It also shows the data on the work organization, taking into account its features and of laboratory test results. In the conclusion it is considered the effectiveness of the measures.