Tunisia on Monday sought to reinforce restrictions to control the spread of coronavrirus as cases surge, while avoiding a fresh lockdown.

The country’s Prime Minister, Hichem Mechichi said that security agencies had been given orders to enforce the wearing of masks and other measures.

"The measures we are taking have the objective of avoiding a situation of lockdown and also to preserve the health of the citizens", Mechichi said.

To that effect, Travelers are also required to present negative Covid-19 tests on arrival in the country. Tunisia is careful not to disrupt its tourism sector again, which is already reeling from heavy losses.

The strict measures adopted through Spring deepened the economic crisis, with unemployment soaring above 18 percent.

The North African country, since after easing restrictions in June has seen an increase in virus cases, recording up to 20 fatalities per day, according to the ministry of health.