The Toronto Raptors have been advised to avoid physical contact with fans, such as high-fiving, in the midst of novel coronavirus fears.

The NBA recently issued a statement to all of its teams that included a number of recommendations for players as the illness approaches pandemic proportions.

In the short-term, NBA officials suggested that athletes switch from the common high-five to a fist bump when greeting fans, and avoid taking fans' personal belongings — such as balls and jerseys — to autograph.

Players have also been instructed to use their own pens when signing, according to ESPN, which first obtained the documents.

Maybe they need to adopt the #CoronavirusFootTap pic.twitter.com/iLVDYKKFHJ

— Village Whisperer (@village_whisper) March 3, 2020

The association, which has apparently been in touch with various communicable disease experts and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is also looking at overall strategies as the virus continues to spread across the globe.

Things like scouting events, pre-draft processes and on-site workouts will likely be affected, and the NBA indicated in the memo that overseas activities could be cut back or even completely cancelled depending on future COVID-19 outbreaks.

Ive never took a chance on shaking hands..ive always fist bumped..You have people digging in thier nose..digging in their booty, sneezing and then wiping thier mouth..ive always been a advocate of the fist bump

— Wayne Cee (@WayneCee4) March 3, 2020

Some players are already taking precautions, vowing to bring their own marker for autographs or even to stop signing autographs altogether.

"It's getting serious, I'll tell you that much" Boston Celtics player Kemba Walker said of coronavirus at a media scrum. "Everyone just needs to be a little cautious." Coach Brad Stevens added that a doctor came in-person to meet with his team and explain the facts of the virus.

The Corona Virus has officially hit Oregon. More specifically Lake Oswego...Make sure y’all washing y’all hands with soap for 20 or more seconds & covering ya mouths when you cough. I am officially taking a break from signing autographs until further notice.

Sincerely,

CJ

— CJ McCollum (@CJMcCollum) February 29, 2020

At least one player has already adopted the NBA-approved fist bump greeting: the New York Knicks' Bobby Portis was heard simply saying "corona" to fans as he offered them his fist after a recent game.