Today could be crunch day for sport in relation to the CoronaVirus.
A meeting in Dublin of the National Public Health Emergency team will consider advice on the whether the restriction of large scale public gatherings would slow down or prevent the spread of the virus.
Sporting events with the elements of cheering, hugging and bringing people together in large groups make an obvious challenge to controlling the virus.
Multiple events across Europe and around the world have been called off. These include the Ireland Italy internationals in the Guinness Six Nations.
Fifa have said that it will be down to tournament organisers to make plans and heed advice. There has been talk of playing games behind closed doors and players have been advised to stop shaking hands with teammates and opponents.
Player representatives are also understood to have made representations about avoiding being placed in danger.
Back in 2001 we waited in line and fully bought in to restrictions aimed at preventing foot and mouth disease which only affects cattle.
Can we really resist something similar to control a disease that has a two percent mortality rate and has seen the first recorded positive test here on Friday.
Image Credit: Sportsfile