"We are in the most critical contagion stage and the virus is already spread throughout our country," said the president in a message on his Twitter account.

Bukele, in another tweet, indicated that “the quarantine must be followed by everyone: companies, institutions, but above all by you and your family. Quarantine is not worth breaking. It may have immediate consequences, but the worst thing is that it could be bringing death to your home. ”

In a Decree issued by the Presidency of the Republic, it is warned that "those who refuse to collaborate will incur the corresponding civil, criminal and administrative responsibilities." It also indicates that "the Salvadoran population is obliged to comply with the provisions of the authorities aimed at preventing and controlling the spread of the disease."

El Salvador declared a national emergency since March 14 for a period of 30 days, a measure that was later extended on April 16 for an additional 15 days.

Official figures report a total of 345 confirmed cases of Covid-19 and nine deaths.