The coronavirus outbreak in China is having a domino effect on sporting events in surrounding regions, including the potential cancellation of the ACT Brumbies' trip to Japan next week.

Japanese officials have already postponed soccer matches and changed participation rules for the Tokyo marathon in a bid to slow the growing infection rate.

Australian Olympic chef de mission Ian Chesterman moved to ease concerns on Wednesday, saying preparations and planning is "full-steam ahead".

That was a perfect message for Barber, who will continue her training in Canberra for the next two months before launching her golden dreams for the Tokyo Games.

The reigning world champion is desperate for a chance in Tokyo after a disappointing performance at the Rio Games four years ago.

The International Olympic Committee is monitoring the spread of coronavirus, Dick Pound conceding the Games could be cancelled if it is not under control.

But Barber has blocked 'what if' scenarios out of her preparation to avoid burning unnecessary energy on something she cannot control.

"I guess it's logical they'll have to keep an eye on it and make an informed decision when the time is right," Barber said.

"They're doing everything they can, they're trying to look after the health and safety of everyone.

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"The Olympics is a huge deal in sports, so I think they'll look at everything and make the right decision.

"As athletes, we go ahead as though the Olympics are going ahead. It's completely out of my control, there's absolutely no point in getting caught up in it when there's no decision.

"For us, it's training as normal until we have further information. That's probably the best approach, because it's out of my hands."

The coronavirus outbreak began in China two months ago, has infected more than 80,000 people globally and killed over 2700, mostly in China.

The virus has gained a foothold in South Korea, the Middle East and Europe, raising fears of a pandemic. Japan has reported four deaths. The Brumbies are scheduled to fly to Osaka next week to play the Japan Sunwolves, but Super Rugby officials are considering postponing the game, shifting it to another country or playing the match but not letting fans attend.

Chesterman said: "Athletes around the country, our message to them is stay calm, get on with what you can control, which is your training, and plan to be attending Tokyo on July 24.

"All the advice that we're getting is that the Games will take place on July 24. But we're taking it very seriously. We are not going to just walk through the next few months avoiding the conversation.

"We are dealing with it ... and we remain confident the Games will go ahead."