MIAA Not Canceling Games At TD Garden Despite Coronavirus Concerns

BOSTON (CBS) - The MIAA said championship basketball and hockey games at the TD Garden this week are not being canceled, despite growing fears over the spread of coronavirus. Boston has several presumptive cases and has already canceled the St. Patrick's Day parade.

Ahead of the games - MIAA officials encouraged fans to follow CDC guidelines and stay home if they feel sick.

"In accordance with the recommendations from Governor Baker to mitigate COVID-19, we encourage participants, spectators, workers and community members to practice good personal hygiene," the MIAA said Tuesday after a state of emergency was declared in Massachusetts.

Health officials announced 51 new cases of the coronavirus, bringing the state's total of positive tests to 92.

"My son, he probably would have been in tears if he had to miss this game," said parent Donald Ismeus at TD Garden. "We got the state of emergency text while we were here. If we got it before we were here, there is a possibility we might have not came."

The MIAA said they support the recommendation for the elderly and those with underlying health issues to stay away from large crowds.