HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- In the wake of growing coronavirus concerns in the Houston-area, a petition to have Houston's Livestock Show and Rodeo cancelled has popped up online.
There are currently eight confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Houston-area, and concerned citizens worry the rodeo could contribute to more cases.
A change.org petition titled "Petition to Cancel the Houston Rodeo Amid Coronavirus Outbreak" has already gained over 400 signatures.
The creator of the petition says, "Due to this clear and present danger to public health in Houston, I believe it is essential we cancel the remainder of the Houston Rodeo."
Rodeo season kicked off Tuesday, March 3 and will last through Sunday, March 22.
The petition comes one day after the annual Austin event "South by Southwest" was canceled due to coronavirus concerns.
READ MORE: South by Southwest canceled amidst coronavirus outbreak
Houston mayor Sylvester Turner said on Twitter that the rodeo isn't the same because unlike Austin's SXSW, RodeoHouston is a mostly local event.
For the past 35 years, the Who's Who in the energy community have gathered in Houston at the annual CERAWeek conference.
SEE ALSO: Businesses fearful after CERAWeek cancellation due to growing coronavirus fears
Due to the international audience the conference gathers, it was abrubtly canceled last week because of what the organization calls the rapidly mounting concern over the COVID-19 coronavirus.
RodeoHouston sent ABC13 the following statement:
"According to the Houston Health Department, while people need to remain vigilant, there is currently no need for the average person to take out-of-the-ordinary protective actions. However, in consideration of our guests and the community, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and NRG Park are actively taking measures to help ensure the health and safety of our guests, including:The video above is from previous reporting.