Monterey Bay Aquarium to shut down temporarily to prevent COVID-19 spread

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is closing temporarily to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The aquarium wrote on its website that the closure is a precautionary measure to protect the health and safety of employees, volunteers, and visitors.

RELATED: Coronavirus Facts: COVID-19 news coverage and resources

The aquarium will remain closed to visitors through at least March 27, during which period its facilities will undergo deep-cleaning.

Those who have tickets to visit the aquarium can contact the aquarium at 831-648-4800 to reschedule their visit or get their ticket cost refunded.

RELATED: Coronavirus: List of Valley events canceled, postponed amid COVID-19 concerns

There will still be a limited number of essential staff members who will work as usual to maintain the building and look after the animals, it said.