Russia plans to ease its restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the novel coronavirus in three stages, Reuters quoted officials as saying.

In a televised video conference with government officials and regional heads, President Vladimir Putin lent his support to the three-stage plan for reducing restrictions.

At first, people will be allowed to go for walks and exercise on the streets, said Anna Popova, head of the consumer health regulator Rospotrebnadzor, but she gave no specific time frame.

The second stage would see educational establishments and some service sector businesses return to operation, with recreational facilities including parks and squares then reopening in the third stage, she said.