People are now being told to stay at home except for very limited purposes, non-essential shops have been closed and all gatherings of more than two people have been banned.
There are now 23 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Jersey has 16 cases.
‘These measures introduce the most far reaching deprivation of personal liberties since the Second World War,’ said Guernsey’s chief minister Gavin St Pier.
‘The impact of these decisions is far reaching but I am absolutely certain that it is the right thing to do to protect our community,’ he added.
The measures, which can be enforced with fines, will be in place for a fortnight at least, but Deputy St Pier warned people to prepare for twice that.
People in Guernsey can now leave their homes only for the following reasons:
Shopping for basic necessities such as food and medicine; for up to two hours of exercise including walking, cycling, running and sea swimming; medical needs and travelling to and from work when it cannot be done from home.
The measures are similar to those introduced in the UK on Monday. Jersey’s Chief Minister has said there are no immediate plans to follow the UK.
