ORLANDO — Universal Orlando Resort has followed Disney’s lead in temporarily closing its theme parks, and is also postponing the launch of its latest hotel.

Park closures, which went into effect on March 15, were made out of “an abundance of caution” and to “assist with our nation’s preventative efforts.”

Universal’s theme parks, which include Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, all closed on March 15 and are anticipated to remain closed through March 31.

Universal Orlando’s hotels and Universal CityWalk will remain open.

The scheduled March 17 opening of the new Universal’s Endless Summer Resort-Dockside Inn and Suites has been postponed. A new opening date will be announced a later time. Guests who have booked a reservation during the closure period through March 31 will be relocated to its sister property, Surfside Inn and Suites. Guests have the option to modify or cancel room or package reservations with no penalty or fee.

Unexpired single-day tickets that have already been purchased will be valid on any day for 365 days from the purchase date. Unexpired multi-day tickets that have already been purchased will also be valid for first use on any day from 365 days from purchase – but, as always, must be used within seven days of first use. Guests who are unable to travel during this time can apply the value of a wholly unused ticket toward a new purchase.

Ticket purchases, hotel reservations and packages purchased between March 4 and April 15 qualify for Universal’s Stress-Free booking policy, which means they may be modified of cancelled with no fee at least 24 hours prior to arrival. For details click here.

Annual passes will be extended by the number of days Universal’s theme parks are closed.

Blue Man Group’s shows beginning March 16 through March 31 are cancelled. Guests who’ve purchased tickets during this time can call (407) BLUEMAN for assistance.

Due to the temporary closure, Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration will now conclude March 15. Any concerts scheduled after this date will be cancelled.

Universal’s closures come on the heels of Disney’s unprecedented decision to halt all operations at Disneyland, Walt Disney World Resort and Disney Cruise Line through the end of March.