Liberia announced on Sunday stringent measures to combat the spread of the ebola virus in the country.

The task force headed by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf announced several measures, including the imminent closure of Liberia's borders excluding airports and major entry points.

She said a new travel policy by the Liberia Airport Authority, covering inspection and testing of all outgoing and incoming passengers would be strictly observed as part of efforts to contain the spread of the disease.

The president also announced that there would be restrictions on public gatherings such as solidarity marches, demonstrations, while promotional advertisements will all be restricted henceforth.

The Liberian leader also mandated hotels, restaurants, entertainment centers and video clubs to regular screen five- minute films on Ebola awareness and prevention.

She said that all government facilities and public places are to provide public access for washing of hands and other sanitized services.

The Ebola virus has so far claimed about 129 lives in Liberia and about 700 lives in the West African countries of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.