Russian authorities brace for surge in virus cases

Russian officials on Monday reported a stey rise in number of new coronavirus infections, fuelling concerns that nation's hospitals could be overwhelmed.

Authorities say that broer testing has contributed to recent surge in tnew cases and insisted that hospitals so far have been coping with influx.

But facilities including exhibition centres and stiums have been refitted in anticipation of a sharp rise in number of infections.

government's task force dealing with outbreak reported 10,581 new cases on Monday, including 5,795 in Moscow.

This brings nation's total to 145,268, including 1,356 deaths.

Russian officials have ordered 120,000 hospital beds be available across country's 82 regions to treat COVID-19 patients.

In recent days, some cities have begun to receive large shipments of much-needed personal protective equipment.

But many hospitals across vast country have reported a short of such equipment.

Russia’s ecomy has been partially shut down since late March, and lockdown measures have been extended through May 11.