Indian authorities on Thursday announced that visa-on-arrival facilities for Japanese and South Korean nationals have been temporarily suspended in the wake of the COVID-19 epidemic.

"In view of threat posed by COVID-19, visa-on-arrival facilities to nationals of Japan and South Korea have been suspended with immediate effect," read a notice issued by the Bureau of Immigration at Chennai's Anna International Airport. "All concerned airlines are hereby directed to only accept those passengers from these countries who have a regular visa on their passports."

India earlier reported three confirmed COVID-19 cases. However, they were immediately quarantined and later discharged from the hospital after showing signs of improvement.

The Indian Health Ministry has launched a helpline number to assist people regarding queries on COVID-19. Health teams have been deployed at 21 airports, seaports and border crossings across the country to screen visitors.

The health ministry is also advertising precautionary measures recommended by the World Health Organization for the prevention and control of COVID-19.