Montana Gov. Steve Bullock Steve BullockSenate Democrats demand White House fire controversial head of public lands agency Pence seeks to boost Daines in critical Montana Senate race Trump's fear and loathing of voting by mail in the age of COVID MORE (D) announced Sunday that schools in the state would close for at least two weeks as state officials work to stop the spread of coronavirus.

A statement on the governor's website indicated that the closures would begin Monday and last through March 27.

“As governor, it is my top priority to protect the health and safety of Montanans, particularly our most vulnerable, at a time when we face the potential for extraordinary health risks from coronavirus in our state,” he said in a statement. “Social distancing is one of the most important primary protective measures to flatten the curve of this virus. I cannot underscore the seriousness of following these measures to help our neighbors, friends, and families."

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“I recognize that our schools often serve as a lifeline for families and that this decision is going to have disruption on Montanans over the coming weeks. I’m committed to working with schools, communities and public health to minimize the impact. I encourage businesses to do everything they can to support families as well,” Bullock added.

Bullock's order followed similar orders from the governors of Nevada, Maryland and Illinois, who all announced school closures across their states in recent days.

More than 3,000 people in the U.S. have been sickened by coronavirus as public health officials work to stop the disease's spread. The virus has infected more than 110,000 globally, and killed thousands.

Officials in states across the U.S. have urged against or banned public gatherings of large groups of people in response, and announced closures of restaurants, bars, and other public places.