SNOWSHOE, W.Va. (AP) — The operator of West Virginia's Snowshoe Mountain ski resort announced Sunday it is suspending operations until further notice due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Alterra Mountain Co. announced the suspensions in a news release at Snowshoe and its 14 other North American ski resorts.

CEO Rusty Gregory said the announcement includes all lift operations, food and beverage, and retail and rental services. He said each resort will work directly with affected guests and provide refunds.

"We anticipate heavy call volume over the next several days and appreciate guests’ patience as we work hard to respond to all inquiries," Gregory said. "We look forward to welcoming you back to the mountains as circumstances improve."

West Virginia is the only U.S. state that has not reported a positive coronavirus case.

Alterra Mountain Co. also operates resorts in Colorado, California, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and in the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, and the vast majority recover in several weeks. But for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause severe illness, including pneumonia.

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