From 26 January, the Murmansk Region will launch a programme for free vitaminisation of residents. This was announced by Governor Andrey Chibis during an operational meeting. The head of the region reminded that in conditions of a long and cold winter with a lack of sunlight, the level of vitamin D can significantly decrease. It plays an important role in regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism in the body and contributes to the immune system's normal functioning.

'According to our experts at the Ministry of Health, northerners have only about 10% of people with normal vitamin D levels. That is why we are launching the programme as part of our strategy titled "In the North—Live!". This year, we are allocating RUB 100 mn from the regional budget for these purposes. The start of the programme and the first stage will be in Murmansk,' the governor said.

At the second stage, starting from 9 February, vitaminisation points will be opened in public places in Monchegorsk, Olenegorsk, Apatity, Kirovsk, Kovdor, Kola, Severomorsk, Zapolyarny, Kandalaksha and Lovozero. Finally, at the third stage, medical teams will visit small and remote settlements.

The head of the region emphasised that testing will take up to 20 minutes. Diagnostic tests are developed and manufactured in Russia.