South Africa has reversed a decision to allow cigarette sales when coronavirus restrictions are eased at the start of next month.

The government had said smokers would be able to buy cigarettes from May 1.

Cooperative Governance Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, who leads the National Coronavirus Command Council, said health considerations had played a part in the decision to maintain the ban.

South Africans were given only a few days' notice to stock up when the government announced the lockdown - which also stopped the sale of alcohol.

From May, outdoor exercise will be allowed and some businesses can reopen.

South Africa recorded more than 300 new virus cases on Wednesday.