Hy-Vee Inc. is installing temporary window panels at checkouts throughout its stores to provide an additional layer of protection for both employees and customers, the company announced Thursday.

Those windows are to be installed during the next few days in response to the evolving COVID-19 outbreak.

Effective today, customers will no longer be allowed to bring in reusable bags until further notice.

According to the company, it is difficult to monitor the cleanliness of those bags.

“The spread of this virus is asking us all to take extraordinary measures and change the way we live our lives,” said Randy Edeker, Hy-Vee’s chairman, CEO and president. “We are continuing to adapt at Hy-Vee so that we can serve our customers and keep everyone in our stores as safe and healthy as possible.”