The coronavirus keeps on kicking. What was originally dismissed by some as a minor outbreak has exploded into a ballooning panic storm. The number of infections of the coronavirus strain first identified in Wuhan China remains low relatively speaking, but many nations are noticing the first signs of infection, as well as fatalities. There’s a real danger here of the virus spreading at various public events. As of writing, more than 420 people have died in China and more than 22,000 people have become sick worldwide. The first deaths outside of China have been reported this week as well.
This viral infection threatens to spread at an exponential rate if it isn’t contained, leading many officials in different countries to pressure for public events to be postponed. Various gaming events have been affected by these closures and delays. Chinese League of Legends and CS: GO events were already canceled. And Nintendo even admits that fears over the disease have led to a slowdown in Switch production.
Now, another event has been delayed, with more restrictions placed on the event when it finally does happen. As of now, the Taipei Game Show delayed proceedings until an undisclosed date. The delay happened “due to the serious outbreak of Wuhan coronavirus,” it will now take place in summer. According to a report by VG247, the organizers for the Taipei Game Show also sent out a list of requirements for attendees. When the event does happen in Taiwan, there will be temperature checks and mandatory mask requirements.
“Taipei Game Show is one of the iconic annual networking events,” say the organizers. With the event having been put on since 2003, this is a pretty big blow, but it’s a necessary change.
“With that in mind, W.H.O. has declared a global emergency as Wuhan coronavirus spreads. Considering mass gatherings like Taipei Game Show increase the chance of cluster infections, the organizing committee has decided to steer away from such unthinkable risks.”
