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MADRID — Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez on Friday declared a 15-day state of emergency in an effort to stem the spread of the coronavirus as the number of cases continued to climb in Spain, with the epicenter in Madrid.

“The declaration of a state of emergency allows us to mobilize the most resources to combat the virus,” Sánchez said in a nationally televised broadcast. “But the victory depends on each one of us. Heroism consists in also washing your hands and staying home. We are going to stop the virus with responsibility and unity.”

As of the latest count on Friday, Spain had 4,200 cases of infection, more than 2,000 of which were in Madrid. At least 62 countries have imposed restrictions on Spanish travelers.

The prime minister, who has approved 18 billion euros to help stop the spread of the virus, appealed specifically to young people to not transmit the virus to more vulnerable segments of the population, noting that though they may not suffer the worst symptoms, they should still stay home.

The move comes days after Madrid’s local government closed all schools and universities. Local reports suggest the Spanish capital will order bars, restaurants, theaters and other nonessential businesses to suspend activity to limit social interaction as early as Saturday.

“We are only in the first stage of fighting the virus,” Sánchez said. “We can expect very tough weeks ahead. We will reach 10,000 infected next week.”