Putin extends Russia's 'stay off work' order through April to curtail virus

President Vladimir Putin has ordered most Russians to stay off work until the end of the month to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Speaking in a televised address to the nation on Thursday, Putin said he was extending the non-working policy he ordered earlier for this week to remain in force throughout April.

He said there are exceptions for essential industries that will keep operating, and grocery stores and pharmacies will remain open.

Putin said that it would be up to the regional authorities to decide which sectors should keep working in their areas.

He said Russia's virus-prevention strategies have bought time and helped slow down the coronavirus outbreak but also warned that cases haven't yet peaked.

Russia had reported 3540 cases and 30 virus-related deaths as of Thursday, according to a Johns Hopkins University tally. Experts have questioned how accurate those numbers are, given Russia's vast size and shared borders with China and Europe.

Putin said that along with protecting the public's health, it's also important to protect people's incomes and prevent a spike in unemployment.

He emphasized that employees should continue receiving their regular pay during the non-working period.

(AP)