The virus spreads when people are in close physical contact -- so one of the most important measures a government or its people can take is social distancing.
Social distancing is exactly what it sounds like -- putting some distance between yourself and others, and avoiding situations where you might be close to many other people.
To this end, countries across Asia have suspended schools, canceled public gatherings such as Lunar New Year festivities, closed public spaces like swimming pools, and recommended people work from home.