New York City mayor Bill de Blasio has ordered the closure of the city’s 27,000 dine-in restaurants, cafes and bars, in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Hospitality venues will be restricted to serving takeout and delivery only, while clubs, cinemas and concert venues will close indefinitely.

“This is not a decision I make lightly,” de Blasio said. “These places are part of the heart and soul of our city. They are part of what it means to be a New Yorker. But our city is facing an unprecedented threat, and we must respond with a wartime mentality.

It’s the latest in a string of shutdowns, with US states Illinois, Ohio, Massachusetts, and Washington state, implementing similar measures.

President Trump has also advised US citizens to limit social gatherings to 10 people.

The new regulations follow a rising number of coronavirus cases in the US, with around 3,500 citizens currently infected with COVID-19 and more than 60 dead. Scientists are also saying there are likely 5-10 undetected cases for every confirmed one.

By contrast, Australia has 401 recorded cases of COVID-19, which has resulted in five deaths, to date.

Restaurants and bars in Australia remain open, and many have already begun offering additional takeaway and pick-up services. Hospitality venues in Australia are also stepping up their sanitation, with many cafes banning reusable coffee cups.