Federal health officials in Canada are calling for people across the country to avoid gatherings of over 50 people and practice social distancing in the wake of a spike in coronavirus cases.

The country saw the number of cases increase from 170 to 407 in the span of four days. As a result, Canada's chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam advised Canadians to avoid groups of over 50 people and self-isolate.

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EN DIRECT : Des responsables fédéraux de la santé présentent une mise à jour sur la réponse à la COVID-19 #cdnpolihttps://t.co/5EyYgV5yFV#cdnpoli pic.twitter.com/6qjXSeua9J

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Dr. Tam outlined on Monday the importance of practicing physical distancing in order to reduce the risk of spreading germs and flattening the curve of the virus.

She also advised Canadians to avoid spaces where people gather, including bars, restaurants, schools and daycares, and to work remotely if possible in an effort to protect those vulnerable to infection.

1/4 Everyone must take all precautions to protect those at high risk of severe #COVID19, while ensuring they are fully supported and not isolated. #Flattenthecurve #protectthevulnerable #doyourpart #WeAreCanadian

— Dr. Theresa Tam (@CPHO_Canada) March 16, 2020

The announcement comes in the wake of stronger measures being implemented by the federal government to close Canadian borders to non-residents while bars in Toronto are being urged to close and restaurants move to take-out and delivery only.

"We all need to act now. COVID-19 is a serious public health threat," said Dr. Tam.