With the coronavirus now a confirmed threat to the United States, two popular Miami music festivals will proceed as scheduled.
Organizers of the Ultra Music Festival and the Calle Ocho Festival have announced that there are no plans to cancel the March festivals despite coronavirus concerns.
Miami Mayor Urges Calm in Lead-up to Festivals
The Ultra Music Festival and Calle Ocho Festival combine to bring more than one million visitors to Miami in March.
Many of the attendees are from other countries. Some may be from regions that have already had confirmed coronavirus outbreaks. Tourists from as many as 100 countries are expected.
The initial coronavirus cases have been traced to China, but since its emergence, the virus has spread to other parts of the globe.
The United States saw its first death due to complications from the coronavirus in late February. At least five more deaths have since been reported.
Even though the presence of the virus in the United States has many people concerned, Miami Mayor Francis Suarez has vowed to stay informed on the status of the coronavirus.
In the meantime, the residents of Miami and those who are planning to attend the Ultra Music Festival are urged to go about their activities as scheduled.
Coronavirus Confirmed in Florida
Despite Mayor Suarez’s optimism, festival attendees may have cause for concern. There have now been at least two confirmed coronavirus cases in Florida.
While the cases were not located in Dade County, there is some concern that the 200,000 people expected to attend the Ultra Music Festival could still be at risk.
COVID-19 is only the most recent example of a type of virus that is relatively common.
Coronaviruses are prevalent in many countries, but this particular strain has proven to be difficult to contain.
Caution is Urged for Ultra Music Festival Attendees
The Ultra Music Festival will proceed as scheduled. Those who are planning to attend are advised to use common measures to protect against spreading or coming into contact with the virus.
Many medical professionals advise staying home if one experiences flu symptoms.
Others who plan on attending the Ultra Music Festival should wash their hands after using public restrooms or other facilities. Periodic use of hand sanitizer can also be helpful.
