Oman's government imposed an overnight curfew to start at 8pm and last until 5am between March 4 and 20, during which all commercial activities must shut down, reported Oman State TV Monday.

The decision came due to an increease in the number of coronavirus cases in the country. Omani health authorities stressed the gravity of the situation, noting that the virus is spreading nationally and internationally. The authorities urged citizens and residents to comply with health and safety measures, and to avoid large gatherings “that have been scientifically proven to cause a large and dangerous outbreak of infection.”

According to the official Oman News Agency (ONA), authorities have also extended distance learning for public schools starting March 7 until March 11, during which the circumstances will be evaluated.