Newcastle United have confirmed the measures that the club is taking to help counter the spread of coronavirus, including the postponement of players signing autographs.
The virus has resulted in the Italian government cancelling all sporting events until April - and while no such drastic measures have so far taken place in the UK, precautions are being made.
The Magpies have issued advice for fans ahead of what potentially could be a sell-out game against Sheffield United at St James' Park this Saturday.
Handshakes between players had already been banned by the Premier League, and mascots also stopped from walking out with the players.
At United, the players and staff have been "advised" to avoid shaking hands with each other at the training ground or stadium.
Meanwhile, all non-football appearances, informal events, meetings and public engagements have been cancelled, and players will not pose with fans for photographs nor sign autographs until further notice.
Stadium tours have also been cancelled and only "essential personnel" will be allowed access to the dugout, tunnel and dressing rooms.
The club, as well as offering advice to supporters and staff, have implemented what officials have called "common sense" steps across all sites.
This includes:
- Distributing posters and leaflets to provide information on how to avoid catching and spreading coronavirus
- Implementing additional environmental hygiene control measures, including anti-bacterial and anti-viral spraying of all premises
- While club premises are already routinely stocked with hand sanitisers to prevent the spread of common illnesses, availability has been increased following the coronavirus outbreak
- Accordingly, hand sanitisers will be located throughout public and non-public areas of the stadium and supporters, staff and all visitors are strongly advised to use them regularly.
The club added that "each of us can play a part in limiting the spread of coronavirus and maintaining a high level of personal hygiene is key".
It added that if any supporter falls to symptoms of the virus "before, during or after Saturday’s match, supporters are advised to stay or travel home".
