Subway is temporarily closing all of its stores in the UK and Ireland from 5pm today.
In a message to customers, the sandwich chain said it wished there was another way, but added that it was taking the decision to try and keep people healthier for longer.
Franchise owners said they would still be donating food to frontline workers over the next few days.
It added that it would be back as soon as it could.
It is the latest food and drink firm to close today as the coronavirus outbreak intensifies, following similar announcements by from McDonalds, Nando's and Costa Coffee.
"We want to do everything in our power to protect our loyal guests, dedicated franchise owners and amazing sandwich artists," the chain said.
"So, for that reason, we have authorised all our franchise owners to close their stores in the United Kingdom and Ireland from 5pm today (23rd March 2020), until further notice.
"We believe this is the best things to help support social distancing and keep everyone as healthy as possible for as long as possible.
"However, many franchise owners are continuing to support the nation's frontline workers in their amazing efforts, by donating food responsibly, over the next few days.
"We'll be back with you as soon as we can."
