UTICA, N.Y. – The Utica St. Patrick’s Day Parade scheduled for Saturday has been postponed as coronavirus continues to spread across the state.

County and state officials met with the health department and local hospitals Thursday to discuss the risks, and decided it was best to postpone the parade as a precaution.

County Executive Anthony Picente said although the virus has not yet reached Oneida County, “We believe it is inevitable that we will have a case at some point.”

Among many precautionary measures, health officials advise people to avoid large gatherings to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

“Staying away from large crowds -- and that’s one of the reasons for the postponement we’re announcing today,” said Picente.

Any details on rescheduling the parade will be released when they become available.

The Old Forge St. Patrick's Day Parade that was scheduled for Friday has also been postponed indefinitely.