The ban only applies to countries that have more than 100 confirmed cases, the authorities said in a statement on Monday. This includes the US, France, the UK and most of Europe.

For the next 15 days, only Ivorian nationals and permanent residents of the country will be permitted to enter from abroad following a mandatory two-week quarantine on arrival.

The security council headed by President Alassane Ouattara also ordered the closure of all schools and universities from Tuesday for a period of 30 days.

Nightclubs, places of entertainment will close from midnight on Wednesday for 15 days, subject to a review.

Gatherings involving more than 50 people, as well as sporting and cultural events, have also been banned for a minimum of 15 days from midnight on Wednesday.

Ivory Coast currently has three confirmed cases of the virus, according to the World Health Organization, and no recorded deaths.

Staff members of a pharmacy wear masks as a preventive measure in Abidjan on 16 March 2020.