The article analyzes the recent large-scale outbreak of the novel coronavirus pathogen and the current epidemiological situation both in the world and in Russia that made experts rethink the threat posed by coronaviruses. The article describes the current situation in 6 regions of the Black Earth Belt in central Russia, summarizes and systematizes the obtained data on the dynamic, patterns of spread and progression of COVID-19. Special focus is placed on the situation in Voronezh region, with its epidemiological indices (the daily growth and fatality rates, duration of the disease before death, groups at risk, etc.). The article also analyzes the clinical and epidemiological features of the disease in patients with comorbidities, including the prevalence of severe and moderate forms and the risk of complications in groups at risk. The clinical presentations of COVID-19 make it difficult to differentiate it from other viral infections. The novel coronavirus is highly virulent and the infection tends to have a severe course. Resource mobilization in the wake of the Sars-CoV-2 epidemic revealed that the Russian healthcare system can successfully respond to public health emergencies. New hospitals and wards, rapid deployment of diagnostic and intensive care equipment, quick retraining of medical staff are all compelling evidence of how sufficient human and material resources can minimize the devastating effects of future epidemics, ensure quick decision making and improve the quality of medical care in “times of peace”.