Sporting fixtures in the worst hit places around the world have been halted to prevent the spread of the coronavirus however with a relatively small number of cases currently in the UK the there has yet to be any major cancellations.
Rugby has already been hit by disruptions elsewhere however with Six Nations games involving Italy postponed.
Ahead of Bristol Bears' Round 13 Gallagher Premiership fixture with Harlequins at Ashton Gate on Sunday, with a crowd of at least 14,000 likely to attend, the club's parent organisation Bristol Sport have issued advice on how to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) and protect the health of its employees and the public.
The statement reads:
"We will be reminding everyone attending Ashton Gate Stadium this weekend for Bristol Bears’ Gallagher Premiership clash with Harlequins, and other events, of optimum hygiene practices.
"Information posters reinforcing the official medical advice for everyone to take personal responsibility for excellent personal hygiene will be displayed.
"COVID-19 can be spread via droplets from the nose and mouth and can be transmitted on to the hands and passed on via a handshake or physical contact.
"Players and staff will therefore not be shaking hands with supporters, signing autographs or stopping for photographs on arrival or departure from Ashton Gate Stadium.
"Any supporter displaying symptoms consistent with the virus or feeling unwell should familiarise themselves with the Chief Medical Officer’s advice on self- isolation. Click here.
"A coronavirus is a type of virus. As a group, coronaviruses are common across the world. Typical symptoms include fever and a cough that may progress to a severe pneumonia causing shortness of breath and breathing difficulties.
"Generally, coronavirus can cause more severe symptoms in people with weakened immune systems, older people and those with long-term conditions like diabetes, cancer and chronic lung disease.
"We will continue to take the best advice from the relevant authorities and will update supporters with any further developments.
"Thank you for your co-operation."
The same precautions are being taken at Bristol City's home game in the Skybet Championship against Fulham on Saturday.
