It comprises leading medical, public health and epidemiology experts from their respective fields of study, alongside representatives of NCAA member schools.

"The NCAA is committed to conducting its championships and events in a safe and responsible manner," said Donald Remy, NCAA chief operating officer. 

"Today we are planning to conduct our championships as planned, however, we are evaluating the COVID-19 situation daily and will make decisions accordingly.

"The NCAA will make decisions that are first and foremost reflective of medical best practices and keeps the health and safety of student-athletes, administrators and fans as the number one priority."

NCAA chief medical officer Brian Hainline will lead the group.

"We are actively monitoring COVID-19 in the United States and will make recommendations on competition based on the evolving medical protocols established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institutes of Health and state and local authorities," Hainline said.

"We are in daily contact with the CDC and are advising leadership on the Association’s response to this outbreak.

"Given the fluid situation, the advisory panel will meet regularly and provide valuable insight and expertise as the Association navigates this complicated public health challenge."

Since originating in Chinese city Wuhan, there have now been more than 96,000 cases of coronavirus, or COVID-19, 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.