Russian President Vladimir Putin has stressed the importance of increasing resources at Russian hospitals to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Axar.az reports citing Russain media.

"I will start with an urgent task for all regions. Hospitals must be on high alert, their resources and capabilities must be expanded. Right now, this is definitely a priority," the Russian leader said during the video conference with Russian regional heads.

He reminded that the corresponding federal aid had been allocated for this purpose. "Namely, over 33 bln rubles (about $438 mln - TASS) have been allocated to place additional specialized beds at hospitals and infectious wards.