A statement released by the Murrumbidgee Local Health District said there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the district as of March 12, but the district is preparing in case patients with the virus are found in the region.

"Additional precautions are being undertaken with patients having procedures or presenting for outpatients and community care clinics," the statement said.

"Emergency Departments (ED), Intensive Care Units (ICU) and specialised treatment and isolation areas will be available in the event that we need to care for patients with Coronavirus.

"People in our communities should be tested if they have recently travelled in mainland China or Iran or another country at risk of COVID-19 and develop fever, cough, runny nose, shortness of breath and other symptoms."

Community members are being recommended to wash their hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly for 20 seconds and remain away from crowds to help reduce transmission of diseases.

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However, NSW Health has not proposed altering any arrangements for public events, but this advice could change as the situation develops and MLHD have said while social distancing is an effective measure, it cannot be practised in all situations.

"It is understandable people are worried, however right now the community is urged to remain calm and continue to go about their normal business," the statement said.

"All businesses that have direct contact with the public should have infection control policies and procedures in place and in the current environment of coronavirus it's even more important these policies are followed.

"It's clear so far that good hygiene can prevent infection, and this is just as important at work as well as outside of work. This includes simple measures like regularly disinfecting of surfaces and washing your hands regularly."

Anyone concerned about their risk of COVID-19 can call HealthDirect on 1800 022 222, where a nurse will triage them over the phone and advise as needed.

The spread of coronavirus has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation, with data indicating there has been a total of 118,381 confirmed cases across 114 countries as of March 12.

There are 77 confirmed cases of the virus in NSW as of 7am on March 12.