The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Tokyo 2020 organisers have moved to quell fears that this year's games could be cancelled due to the spread of the coronavirus.
The virus has caused the deaths of over 200 people in China, and there are fears that its impact could spread.
There were reports that the IOC met with the World Health Organisation (WHO) to discuss the outbreak. However, the IOC has moved to quash rumours which had surfaced online suggesting that the Tokyo Games could be cancelled.
"Preparations for Tokyo 2020 continue as planned," the IOC insisted in a statement. "It is normal practice for the IOC to collaborate with all the main UN agencies, as necessary, in the lead up to the games and this naturally includes the WHO."
Tokyo organisers also attempted to dampen speculation of a potential postponement, saying the cancellation of the games was "never discussed".
"We have never discussed cancelling the games," the organisers said. "Tokyo 2020 will continue to collaborate with the IOC and relevant organisations and will review any countermeasures that may be necessary."
It looks as though the Olympics could be overshadowed by health concerns for the second successive staging.
The Rio games in 2016 were subject to health fears surrounding the Zika virus. Irish golfers Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry were among those to cite health concerns as they opted against travelling to the Brazilian city.
The spread of the coronavrius in China has significantly impacted on the country's sporting schedule.
Earlier this week, World Athletics announced the postponement of the World Indoor Championships in Nanjing. It is now set to take place in March 2021.
Football's Super League is among the competitions that have been postponed by the China Football Association (CFA).
The Chinese Super League was due to begin on February 22nd but has now been put off, with the CFA yet to announce a new start date.
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