MGM Resorts to close Vegas buffets amid coronavirus outbreak

Officials with MGM Resorts announced Tuesday that the company would temporarily close buffets at restaurants in several of its locations across Las Vegas, including the MGM Grand, amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Local CBS affiliate KLAS reported that buffet lines at seven locations, including the MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, Aria, Bellagio, Mirage, Luxor and Excalibur, would all be shuttered as part of efforts to prevent the spread of the virus, which is believed to have originated in China and has since infected more than 110,000 people around the world.

The decision will reportedly be revisited on a weekly basis as efforts continue to control the spread of the virus.

“The safety and health of guests and employees continue to be top priority as the company works with local health officials on protocol and procedures during this time,” MGM Resorts said in a statement obtained by KLAS.

The company will “work directly with MGM’s Labor Relations department to assist with any employment changes, transitions or questions as part of the temporary Buffet closure process,” the statement continued.

Health officials announced this week that another case of the novel coronavirus had been reported in Nevada, bringing the total infected in the state up to four.