Mexico restaurant ban follows flu scare

Restaurants in Mexico City were today ordered to serve only takeout food to help prevent the spread of swine flu.

Mexico City Interior Secretary Jose Angel Avila said all restaurants were prohibited from serving customers inside their establishments.

He said the measure was meant to prevent people from gathering in close proximity and spreading the virus.

Mexico City Mayor Marcelo Ebrard has ordered gyms, sports clubs, swimming pools and pool halls closed.

The shutdown also includes cinemas, zoos and museums. Schools are closed nationwide.