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Several events, tourist attractions in Nashville close amid COVID-19 concerns

Posted at 9:01 AM, Mar 13, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-13 10:10:40-04

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Music is one thing that makes Nashville so special. However, several concerts and events around the city are on hold because of COVID-19 concerns.

The Country Music Hall of Fame has canceled all family and student activities for now, including songwriters sessions, musician spotlights, and film screenings. The museum portion is still open, but officials there are keeping an eye on how things develop.

The Grand Ole Opry released a statement Thursday night, saying they will bring us an update later Friday on future shows and tours. They are working with artists to evaluate possible postponements.

Live Nation, the group responsible for bringing artists like Billie Eilish, Jason Aldean, and Post Malone to Nashville, has announced several postponements. Many of those tours plus Chris Stapleton, Cher, Kiss, and The Zac Brown Band will be rescheduled in addition to many others.

Company Executives say they will re-evaluate the situation at the beginning of April. Live Nation says its goal is to continue tours in May or June.

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What is COVID-19 (a.k.a. the new coronavirus?)

According to the World Health Organization, coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases. Examples include the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV)and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans. COVID-19 stands for "Coronavirus disease 2019," which is when this strain of the coronavirus was discovered.

What are the symptoms?

The CDC says patients confirmed to have the 2019-nCoV reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with:

  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Or at least two of the following symptoms:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Repeated shaking with chills
  • Muscle pain
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • New loss of taste or smell

At this time, the CDC believes symptoms could appear as soon as two days after exposure, or as long as 14 days.

Prevention

The CDC is recommending "common sense" measures such as:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.