MONROVIA (dpa/NAN) ― Liberia closed most of its borders on Monday in a bid to halt the spread of Ebola virus.

The step was taken after a third doctor, who was working to contain the virus in West Africa, contracted the disease.

“Preventive and testing centres will be established at the five entry points for all outgoing and incoming travellers,’’ says President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf

Only five entry points, including James Spriggs Payne Airport in Monrovia and Roberts International Airport– 50 kilometres further east, remained open,

The president also announced restrictions on public gatherings and requested hotels, restaurants, entertainment centres and video clubs, to show educational Ebola prevention videos.

“Communities seriously affected by the Ebola outbreak will be quarantined,’’ she stressed.

According to the president, Liberia is planning to set up facilities to wash hands in government facilities and public places across the country.

World Health Organization (WHO) officials say the current Ebola outbreak in three countries in West Africa – Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia – is the deadliest ever.

According to a report, the WHO says 1,093 cases have been confirmed while 660 people have died till July 20

Ebola causes massive haemorrhages and has a fatality rate of 90%, it is transmitted through blood and other body fluids.