Italy is expected to prohibit people from leaving or entering cities and towns in designated high-risk areas, according to the draft of a new decree on coronavirus restrictions.

Residents in those highest-risk zones will be allowed to leave only for specific business or health reasons.

Stores classified as non-essential, as well as bars and restaurants, would be closed in those areas. 

All school classes above sixth-grade level would move online in the high-risk areas, along with high schools in the rest of the country.

The decree also states that a 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew will be imposed across the country.

Areas to be classified as high-risk zones are still being discussed by national and regional authorities.

Additionally, cruises by passenger ships under the Italian flag will be stopped.

The most recent measures are due to come into effect on Thursday and last until early December.

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte is expected to sign the decree as early as Tuesday. Conte has constantly avoided the possibility of imposing a second national lockdown despite a resurgence in the number of cases.

According to the Johns Hopkins University, Italy has so far recorded 731,588 confirmed coronavirus cases and 39,059 deaths.

(With input from agencies)