AUSTIN, Texas – On Tuesday, U.S. health experts warned that the spread of the COVID-19, commonly known as the coronavirus, will inevitably come to the United States.

Only weeks away from the event that brings thousands to the Texas capital, a SXSW spokesperson is saying that the 2020 event will proceed as planned.

They say safety is a priority and they are in contact with government bodies on all levels year-round to ensure the event is safe.

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“We are increasing our efforts to prevent the spread of germs per Austin Public Health’s recommendations. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary,” they said in an emailed statement.

Additionally, the SXSW spokesperson said they have seen a “handful” of cancellations because of travel impacts related to the coronavirus. So far though, those cancellations are no more than they typically have seen in previous years.

Internationally, events like the Venice Carnival in Italy and the Tokyo Marathon in Japan have been canceled to help stop the spread.

For the latest information from the CDC go here