Houston Rodeo Canceled Over Coronavirus Fears

HOUSTON, TX — The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has been canceled over new coronavirus fears, officials said on Wednesday.

Given the risk of spread of the respirator ailment now known as COVID-19, city officials reportedly made the decision to cancel the event after s series of meetings to discuss the matter. The event had been scheduled through March 22.

COVID-19 is caused by a member of the coronavirus family that’s a close cousin to the SARS and MERS viruses that have sparked outbreaks in the past. More than 25 cases of COVID-19 have been reported throughout Texas, including 14 in the Houston area. No confirmed COVID-19 cases have emerged in the state capital of Austin.

Don't miss the latest coronavirus updates from health and government officials. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters for what you need to know daily.

According to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo website, the event drew 2.5 million visitors during its 21-day run last year. The event is the premiere community focal point in Houston since its founding in 1932.

On Wednesday, the World Health Organization announced that the new coronavirus had become a “pandemic.” The pandemic declaration refers to the scope of the new coronavirus — but not its severity — and means it has become a "worldwide spread of a new disease.”

Related stories:

• Coronavirus Forces SXSW Cancellation: Here's Why
• Dell Worker Positive For Coronavirus Visited Round Rock HQ
• Grand Prix Race Postponed In Austin Amid Coronavirus Fears
• Austin Bans Events With 2,500-Plus Attendees Over Coronavirus

The exact date for the rodeo's cancellation has not been announced after the event's March 3 launch. Patch will update when more information is known.