San Francisco has declared a state of emergency over the coronavirus.
The Californian city hasn't recorded any cases of COVID-19, according to the Independent, however officials are worried about the city's preparedness if and when it hits.
San Francisco Mayor London Breed said: "We see the virus spreading in new parts of the world every day and we are taking the necessary steps to protect San Franciscans from harm."
He added that the 'global picture' is 'changing rapidly' and systems need to be put in place to ensure hospitals and other important services are ready for patients.
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The declaration of a state of emergency allows agencies to deploy special funds, resources or staff to increasing that preparedness.
There have been more than 80,000 people infected with the coronavirus worldwide, and more than 2,400 have died.
Loads of places around the world have begun quarantining people and even installing lockdowns over fears the virus could spread. A hotel in Tenerife is one of those places after one of its Italian guests tested positive for the disease.
About 1,000 tourists have reportedly been told to remain inside the hotel complex, with police standing outside to make sure no one goes in or out.
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According to local media outlets, the H10 Costa Adeje Palace, in the south of the island, is hugely popular with British tourists at this time of year. Speaking to Sky News, one guest revealed they had not been given much information by hotel staff.
One said: "All we have been told is to stay in our rooms."
Another added: "We've not been given any information other than a piece of paper under the door."
In the UK, a Cheshire school has been shut down after students returned from a ski trip in Italy showing 'mild flu-like symptoms'.
The students from Cransley School in Northwich had visited Bormio in Lombardy, Italy. There have been a total of seven deaths in Italy from the current Covid-19 virus outbreak, along with 270 confirmed cases in the country.
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A letter from the headteacher Richard Pollock said: "Following a ski trip by 29 pupils and 5 staff from Cransley School to Bormio in Lombardy over half term, a small number of pupils and staff began showing mild flu-like symptoms yesterday.
"All pupils who are unwell should inform NHS 111 and insist on being tested for the Coronavirus. I am attending a dedicated 'pod' at Warrington General tomorrow myself. Pupils should not use public transport or taxis."
Pollock explained that Public Health England advice on similar matters indicates the school should remain open, but he has made the call to close to be on the safe side, adding that the site would also be 'deep-cleaned'.
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