Blue Jackets go against state's recommendation of spectator-less games

The Columbus Blue Jackets will continue to allow fans at games despite a recommendation from Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine on Tuesday that events at indoor sports and entertainment facilities be conducted without spectators due to the coronavirus, the team announced in a statement.

"We have been in contact with the National Hockey League and, given the facts before us, it has been determined that our scheduled games, including this Thursday vs. Pittsburgh and Saturday vs. Nashville, will go on as scheduled and be open to ticketed fans that wish to attend."

The team recommended that guests at higher risk, such as elderly individuals and those with pre-existing health issues, should avoid large-scale public events.

There are three confirmed cases of coronavirus in Ohio, but the virus is expected to spread, officials said, according to WLWT5.

The San Jose Sharks may play games in an empty arena after the club agreed to abide by Santa Clara County's ban of large gatherings exceeding 1,000 people. As of Monday, Santa Clara County had 43 reported cases of coronavirus and one death.