Kroger is altering schedules at some of its stores to create special shopping hours for customers at a higher risk of contracting  COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus.

Stores in Georgia, Eastern Alabama and South Carolina will block off 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. on Mondays through Thursdays for seniors over 60 and high-risk people as defined by the CDC, the grocer announced Sunday.

The changes will begin Monday, the statement said.

“During these hours, we will be open for those who may be more susceptible to COVID-19,” Kroger manager of corporate affairs Felix Turner said.

RELATED: Surge of shoppers at grocery stores eases

“We encourage all customers to respect these special hours as we work to protect our community members.”

Kroger is the latest grocer to alter hours to accommodate shoppers at risk of getting COVID-19

Publix announced it will open for shoppers age 65 and older Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. starting Tuesday, AJC.com previously reported.

MORE: Publix to set special hours for older shoppers

In other news: 

The numbers released at noon Sunday are up from 555 cases and 20 cases Saturday at 7 p.m.