Hearts have announced the steps they're taking to prevent the spread of coronavirus with all player appearances cancelled and no mascots at matches.
COVID-19 has swept across Europe and caused chaos with the organisation of sporting events.
Spain, France and some regions of Germany are playing matches behind closed doors while football has been suspended altogether in Italy.
It was confirmed this week that Rangers ' away leg against Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League will be played behind closed doors and Hearts have now announced they're also taking preventative measures.
A statement read: “The club is closely monitoring the advice from the UK and Scottish Governments and Health Authorities in relation to the coronavirus (COVID – 19).
“Currently, forthcoming fixtures are not affected, but it is crucial that if any supporter has any Upper Respiratory Tract symptoms (such as a cough, breathlessness, sore throat etc), they must not attend any match until they have had their symptoms properly medically assessed.
“The club is also taking the following measures with immediate effect for the health and well being of our players and fans:
- There will be no player appearances, hand shaking or shirt signings with the team;
- We are suspending our Children’s Mascot Programme for the next month as the advice is that only the teams and officials should be on the pitch.
- There will be no handshakes between teams or officials.
- The club will continue to take guidance from the Scottish FA and SPFL joint task force, the UK and Scottish Governments and Health Authorities and will update supporters with any further developments.”
