France to Close Schools, Ban Domestic Travel as Virus Surges

Local prefect Josiane Chevalier, second right, and her aide watch French President Emmanuel Macron addressing the nation, in the local government building in Strasbourg, eastern France, on March 31, 2021. Jean-Francois Badias/AP Photo

PARIS—French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday announced a three-week nationwide school closure and a month-long domestic travel ban, as the rapid spread of the virus ramped up pressure on hospitals.

In a televised address to the nation, Macron said efforts are needed as “the epidemic is accelerating.”