One of the country’s largest operators of malls announced it is closing its U.S. properties temporarily due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Simon Properties owns the Pheasant Lane Mall, the Mall of New Hampshire, the Mall at Rockingham Park and Merrimack Premium Outlets, along with 12 malls and large retail plazas in Massachusetts.

In its announcement, Simon said the decision was made “after extensive discussions with federal, state and local officials.”

The measure takes effect at 7 p.m. today and will end on March 29.

“The health and safety of our shoppers, retailers and employees is of paramount importance and we are taking this step to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our communities,” company Chairman, CEO and President David Simon said in a statement.