Russian officials have asked hotels to ban unmarried people from staying in the same room as a way to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, writes The Moscow Times.

 Hotels would have to "explain" why unmarried couples are staying in the same room, according to Rospotrebnadzor, Russia's consumer protection office.

 "The task of obtaining proof of marital status is the full responsibility of the hotel," Rospotrebnadzor said, but Rostourism, the federal travel agency, said guests would not be required to present marriage certificates.

 The Consumer Protection Authority subsequently announced that the accommodation ban applies to people who do not normally come into contact with everyday life.

 "The rules are: mainly accommodation of one person, except families", tried to clarify Rospotrebnadzor, adding "in other words, it is recommended that people who do not contact each other in everyday life not be accommodated in the same room  to avoid additional risks of infection ”.

 Hotels, restaurants and other businesses in the hospitality sector have begun to gradually reopen in Russia from June 1 after a two-month quarantine imposed across the country.