In light of the Coronavirus outbreak, some local promoters have postponed their events.

On Tuesday, Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton during a press briefing confirmed Jamaica’s first COVID-19 case and discouraged public gatherings.

The announcement led to some promoters taking proactive measures through the postponement of their events, while others have issued an advisory.

Organizers of the highly anticipated BRT Weekend slated to kick-off on Friday, in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, have postponed the event. According to a press release, which reads in part, “The CEO’s of BRT Weekend are very concerned about the impact and risk factors (COVID-19) poses on the thousands of committed tourist-attendees expected for this weekend.”

The new dates for the Ocho Rios leg will see BRT Weekend run from July 31 to August 2. Meanwhile, the Turks and Caicos leg will be held from September 4 to 6. The press release further stated that all tickets purchased for BRT Weekend will be honoured for the rescheduled dates.

The Coronavirus has also forced Boom SoundClash to suspended its event for four weeks. Promoter and entertainer NewKidz cites the concerns of patron’s safety for taking brisk action.

Meanwhile, the organizers of Bacchanal Jamaica, Xaymaca International, and Xodus, have issued an advisory to Carnival revellers. According to the press release posted on social media, they will continue to consult with the Jamaican Government about precautions, but will remain in full execution, and are optimistic that Jamaica will be able to minimize the effects on our people, and visitors in the near term.

The organizer of Reggae Sumfest, Josef Bogdanovich said, they recognize that COVID-19 is a legitimate health scare and are putting the necessary steps in place to ensure patrons’ safety for the festival set to take place in July. Stocking washrooms with soap, installing hand sanitizers at the entrance and key points throughout the venue, and health professionals on sight are some of the measures Reggae Sumfest will implement.

Currently, Jamaica has imposed a ban on travel, to and from France, Spain, and Germany, in addition to China, Italy, South Korea, Singapore, and Iran.