Germany closed its borders to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. (File photo: AFP)

BERLIN, March 20 (Xinhua) -- Markus Soder, Prime Minister of Germany's largest state Bavaria, has announced Friday exit restrictions for the entire state to curb the novel coronavirus pandemic, making it the country's first state to impose a lockdown, local media, n-tv.de, reported. 

The measures will go into effect for two weeks starting Friday evening.

Leaving one's own apartment is only permitted if there are good reasons, including going to work, necessary shopping, visits to the doctor and pharmacy, visits from life partners, but also sports and exercise in the fresh air -- but only on their own or with a partner.