As you all know, this virus is affecting the economy in a global way. The coronavirus, or COVID-19, is impacting all sectors, but we will specifically discuss our industry.

There is a terrible panic about traveling, so as a receptive agency, we are experiencing some cancellations from clients who wanted to come to Barcelona to celebrate their conventions and events. Tourism is plummeting rapidly... and if you take a look at Venice, its empty streets during Carnival, something entirely unthinkable.

In the coronavirus crisis, there is another count that is also being closely monitored: the number of canceled events. Following the GSMA's decision to suspend the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the cancellation of fairs and events has followed suit, football and basketball games are being held behind closed doors, sports and cultural shows are being canceled, companies' training sessions are being postponed, and even in the last week, a large number of multinational companies have canceled work-related trips.

"90% of the negative effects of this crisis will not come from the epidemiological spread of the virus but from the decisions stemming from panic."

We are optimistic, and we do not believe that this situation will last for an extended period. With the arrival of good weather and warmth, things will likely start to improve.

Here are some recommendations to try to prevent contagion:

Avoid direct contact with people suffering from respiratory infections. Wash your hands frequently: for proper handwashing, you should use plenty of soap and warm or lukewarm (not scalding) water. Rub your hands under the tap for more than 20 seconds, covering all hand surfaces, not just palms or the back of your hand but also between your fingers and up to the wrists, at least in the first 10 cm, for added safety. Maintain a distance of at least one meter from other people, especially if there is suspicion or a high risk of infection. Cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues when coughing or sneezing. Wash your hands immediately afterward or use alcohol-based antiseptic solutions. If you can't do that, use your clothing sleeve and wash the garment later when you can. Greetings to all readers, and have a great week!