The Armenian government today decided to prohibit people from leaving their homes except to buy food, medicine, other necessary household items, and in cases exempted by the State of Emergency Command.

The restriction on freedom of movement begins at midnight March 24.

The number of confirmed Covid-19 cases has spiked in Armenia over the past few days. As of March 23, the official number of infected was 235.

Suren Krmoyan, an adviser to Deputy PM Tigran Avinyan (who has been appointed to run the State of Emergency Command), made the announcement at a press conference today.

Krmoyan urged people to remain at home, advising them to only leave to attend funerals or to care for someone.

Individuals who work for businesses still permitted to operate (food, beverage and tobacco manufacturers, some light industrial sectors) will also be allowed to leave their homes.

Krmoyan added that those who wished could exercise once a day near their place of residence or bike ride.

Those leaving their home will be required to list, on a piece of paper, their name, time of departure, destination, reason for leaving, and the time they expect to return. The forms must be signed.

People travelling anywhere must also carry their passports or ID documents.

Krmoyan said that police officers would randomly check people on the street for the appropriate paperwork and to enquire as to why they are outside.

It appears that some individuals will be issued permits to leave their residences. These individuals must always carry their permits.

Those found in violation of the ban face administrative and criminal prosecution.

Medical professionals and health workers are also exempted.

Krmoyan stressed that people must fill out a travel slip even if they are only going to the local grocery store.

He urged journalists to work from home as well.