Public/Global Health

‘Jeopardy,’ ‘Wheel of Fortune’ taping without audiences due to virus concerns

Long-running TV game shows “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune” will begin to tape shows without live studio audiences as concerns about the spread of the coronavirus mount.

A source close to the shows told The Associated Press on Monday that the moves are being taken “out of an abundance of caution.”

“Jeopardy” host Alex Trebek, 79, is battling pancreatic cancer, while “Wheel of Fortune” host Pat Sajak is 73.

Sixteen confirmed coronavirus cases have been reported in Los Angeles County, where the shows are taped.

Both shows are recorded months in advance, so viewers won’t notice the lack of audience members for a while.

The moves come after CBS halted production of “The Amazing Race” last week due to the virus.

The virus, formally known at COVID-19, has infected well over 100,000 people worldwide. In the U.S., more than 700 cases of the virus have been reported, with 26 deaths.