The discontinuation of face-to-face learning across schools in Jamaica are among several new measures delcared by Prime Minister Andrew Holness to contain the island’s worrying coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.

Holness, in an addres to the nation on Sunday (March 21), explained that the suspension of in-person lessons would take immediate effect and last until Tuesday, April 13.

“There should be no face-to-face instruction in all primary and secondary schools (public and independent) until April 13. Students are to be instructed using other modalities. and for clarity note that this includes students who are to sit exit examinations,” the prime minister noted.

Additionally, funerals remained banned for the next three weeks, ending on April 13. Burials, which were paused until Tuesday, March 23, will be allowed only during weekdays starting Wednesday.

“As of Wednesday, March 24, until April 13, burials will be allowed Mondays to Fridays only during the hours of 9:00 am and 4:00 pm. Only 10 mourners will be allowed and an additional five persons can be present who comprise officiating clergy, gravediggers and undertakers,” Holness said, adding, “The time for conducting the burial is not to be longer than 30 minutes. Note that no burials will be allowed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.”

In the meantime, places of worship will continue services between 5:00 am and 8:00 pm, with a new maximum of 12 persons—officiating clergy and IT personnel—physically present to facilitate online broadcasts. Applications must be submitted to Divisional Commanders for each parish through the police station closest to the place of worship.

Weddings, on the other hand, will have their gathering limit reduced from 25 to 15 persons, effective Tuesday, April 6, and will remain unchanged until April 13.

What’s more, beaches not under organised management and control, as well as rivers islandwide will stay closed to the public until the next review period of April 13.

Zoos, parks, gyms, bars and other attractions will still be subjected to the nightly curfew measures, and as such, must close two hours before the commencement of curfew until April 13.

Concerts, parties, tailgate parties, round robins and other outdoor events are still prohibited—a measure which also remains in effect for indoor cinemas and other theatrical or artistic establishments.

Amusement or gaming arcades not licensed under the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act, must shutter their operations from Tuesday, March 23 until April 13.