There may be changes, however, depending on what happens before Sunday (March 8), when more than 25,000 runners from around the world are expected to participate.

"All Los Angeles Marathon weekend activities are scheduled to take place as planned," a statement from organisers reads.

"Safety is always our first priority and our operations team has been in consistent dialogue with local authorities and monitoring developments related to all safety aspects of the marathon, including coronavirus.

"The marathon is dedicated to providing the best experience for our participants, staff, volunteers and spectators, deploying a disciplined approach with UnifiedLA that involves all public safety agencies for an immediate and coordinated response to any emergency.

"If circumstances change, we will work closely with local, state and federal authorities to implement any necessary plans and protocols for the marathon.

"Runner safety is paramount and will continue to be our top priority throughout race day. 

"We will communicate any additional updates, should conditions change, through email, Twitter, Facebook, and our website."

As reported by the International Business Times, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency throughout the state yesterday, shortly after confirming the first death of a resident from coronavirus.

As of yesterday, California has 53 confirmed cases of the virus, named COVID-19 by the World Health Organization.

The Los Angeles Marathon will come less than a week after a scaled-back Tokyo Marathon was held last Sunday (March 1) due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Organisers were forced to cancel the public mass participation event, with only the elite races and wheelchair competitions going ahead in the Japanese capital.

Meanwhile, an alternative date is being sought for the Paris Half Marathon, following the postponement of Sunday's race.

Since originating in Chinese city Wuhan, there have now been more than 96,000 cases of coronavirus around the world, and more than 3,300 deaths.

In the United States, 160 people have been infected while 11 have died.

Some schools in the country have been closed as authorities aim to contain the virus.