Russian President, VLADIMIR PUTIN has announced the extension of a nonworking period in Russia to slow the spread of the corona virus until April 30.

President PUTIN announced the longer work-free period in an address broadcast on state television, after health officials had said more time was needed.

The president first announced a week-long break from work in a rare televised address last week as part of a series of escalating measures to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus in Russia.