D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser on Monday announced an order requiring residents of the nation's capital to stay at home or potentially face criminal charges as the region works to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

The directive comes just hours after neighboring Maryland and Virginia each unveiled similar orders Monday.

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Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam, Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan and Bowser spoke by phone Monday to coordinate a response to the coronavirus, Northam said during a press conference.

D.C. residents will not be permitted to leave their homes unless they are getting groceries or other needed supplies, engaging in certain recreational activities, seeing a doctor or going to work at essential businesses. All non-essential businesses must remain closed.

"Our message remains the same: stay home," Bowser said in a statement. "Staying at home is the best way to flatten the curve and protect yourself, your family, and our entire community from COVID-19. Many people want to know how they can help right now, and for most people this is how – by staying home."

Individuals who willfully violate the order may be guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to imprisonment, a $5,000 fine or both.

The Washington area saw a surge of coronavirus cases and deaths over the weekend. The known number of coronavirus cases in the District, Maryland and Virginia stood at 2,840 Monday, with 51 deaths.