The borders of the European Union and the Schengen area will be closed for 30 days starting March 17 due to the coronavirus outbreak, French President Emmanuel Macron said in his second address to the nation over four days.

According to the earlier reports, coronavirus epidemic in France has moved to the third stage. On Saturday evening, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced the closure of cafes, restaurants, cinemas and non-food stores. Pharmacies, grocery stores, banks, gas stations and tobacco stalls will remain open. French authorities urge fellow citizens to reduce movement and delay travel.