CNN temporarily suspends studio tours amid coronavirus concerns

Fast Facts About CNN The Cable News Network launched in 1980 as the first 24-hour TV news network. It was founded by Ted Turner, a Georgia businessman who had bought the Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Hawks and launched Turner Broadcasting Station, or TBS. CNN gained major traction with its coverage of the Persian Gulf War in 1991. CNN is distributed in more than 96.2 million households. The network is now a division of WarnerMedia.

CNN announced Thursday that it was suspending its studio tour amid concerns about the coronavirus.

A notice appeared on the Atlanta-based media outlet's tour website March 5 explaining the move to potential tourists.

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“To ensure the safety of our guests, staff and employees, tours are temporarily suspended due to an abundance of caution regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19),” it read in part.

The notice said the CNN Store would remain open and resume normal business hours and operations. Customers who have a tour reservation can call (404) 827-2300 and guests are encouraged to check back for updates online.

CNN’s studio tour provides a 50-minute behind-the-scenes access to the news network’s world headquarters. The tour, for which adult tickets cost $16.50, is also provided as part of Atlanta’s CityPass, which provides access to the city’s attractions.

The move from CNN comes after Georgia confirmed on Tuesday two cases of the new virus, which causes COVID-19. The individuals both reside in Fulton County and one recently traveled to Milan, Italy, and spread the virus to another person who lives in the same home.

In the meantime, nearly 200 Georgia residents have been quarantined in their homes after returning from visits to China.

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Gov. Brian Kemp has urged residents to “remain calm.”

"They don't need to feel like they need to make a run on anything," Kemp told the AJC in an interview Tuesday. "They need to make sure they have normal supplies at their homes, maybe a little extra, but don't feel like you have to stock up for three months. Be smart — if you've been to Italy, South Korea, China, you may be more susceptible to this. Call your doctor and if you're not feeling good, stay at home. Be really smart about this. Don't go to work and don't send your kids to school if you're not feeling well. We just want people to remain calm right now."