Organizers with the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) say that they’ll move forward with the event later this month but will take precautions against the spread of coronavirus.
This year, MATS is scheduled to take place at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky, March 26 — 28. Last year, more than 72,000 people attended the MATS truck show.
As COVID-19 coronavirus spreads to more U.S. states and the American death toll from the virus climbs into the double digits, conferences and trade shows are being cancelled at a historic rate over fear that the gatherings could help the illness to spread.
MATS organizers said via an update to their website that they do not plan to cancel the event and “will make every effort to ensure a safe and successful show.” Organizers say that they plan to actively monitor the coronavirus situation and keep attendees informed of any change in plans that could arise in the next few weeks.
Coronavirus is expected to slightly reduce attendance from international exhibitors, organizers say: “Some of our international exhibitors have been impacted by COVID-19, due to travel restrictions and the spread of the virus in China and South Korea. The expected cancellations of China-based exhibitors and attendees will have limited impact on the show, representing less than 5% of the exhibiting companies less than 2% of MATS attendance.”
Organizers are asking people who feel ill to stay away from the show: “We encourage all of our participants to take the necessary precautions to avoid the spread of the virus and avoid show if they are sick.”
MATS organizers say that they are also working with staff at the Kentucky Exposition Center on disinfectant and cleaning procedures and that they’ll be setting up additional hand sanitization stations in high traffic areas.
For more information on coronavirus and MATS, you can click here.