A transcript of the letter is below:
Delhi, 12 February 2020
Urgent Announcement: Cancellation of Karmapa Public Course
This morning, the KIBI administration team held a meeting concerning the Karmapa Public Course 2020 and the coronavirus (COVID-19).
As we all know, once a single person carries the virus, a large number of people may become infected, even without showing any symptoms. At this point, neither effective preventative measures nor a cure have been developed.
The coronavirus (COVID-19) has the potential to become a great threat. A large gathering of people from so many different parts of the world is not recommended at this point.
Therefore, we have taken the decision to cancel this year’s Karmapa Public Course.
While we wholeheartedly regret this, individual health is very important. We highly recommend for all of you to follow the measures recommended by WHO and your respective governments in relation to the coronavirus.
From today, and until further notice, KIBI will not provide any rooms for visitors. We very much regret having to cancel all existing bookings. Furthermore, KIBI will not accept any day time visitors, until further notice.
We kindly ask for your understanding, and wholeheartedly apologise for the inconvenience this will cause.
May you all remain in good health and continue your daily practice for the benefit of all sentient beings.
With best wishes
KIBI administration team