Russia health experts have told recipients of the country's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine to lay off the vodka for two months - causing a national stir.

Russia is one of the first countries to conduct large-scale vaccinations. However, the inoculated have been warned off alcohol for eight weeks after getting the shots.

Health experts said alcohol reduces effectiveness. The vaccine is administered by two shots given three weeks apart.

According to Russian doctors those who get treated should abstain from drinking for at least 42 days. The recommendation was eventually extended to 56 days - with experts saying the body needs longer to receive the vaccine.

The recommendation is a big ask for most Russian as it has long been believed that drinking alcohol - particularly vodka - strengthens the immune system.

Large-scale public vaccinations began over the weekend. Vaccination campaigns throughout the rest of the country are expected to start this weekend. The vaccines are free and are voluntary.

The public was quick to react to the "no vodka" rule. Complainants - mostly younger men - said it was virtually impossible to comply.

The World Health Organization agrees with the health experts. It said studies show alcohol consumption is counterproductive.

Some experts said a glass of Champagne was fine and complete abstinence may not be necessary.  The director of the Gamaleya Centre of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Alexandr Guinstburg, agrees.

"Under no circumstances should you get drunk, including during the vaccination process, as alcohol has a negative influence not only on a person's behavior but also on the functioning of the immune system but a glass of Champagne doesn't harm anyone," Guinstburg said.

Guinstburg, however, said a glass of vodka was not advisable as the drink's alcohol content was too high. Compared with Champagne, which has a 12% alcohol concentration, the country's national drink has an alcohol concentration of 40%.