(CNN) Seattle-based rock band Pearl Jam is postponing the US and Canadian dates of its upcoming tour because of the novel coronavirus.

In a series of tweets Monday night, the music group said that the first leg of its Gigaton 2020 tour has been postponed due concerns over the virus. The first show was scheduled for March 18 in Toronto, with dates to follow in 13 Canadian and US cities.

"It is with deep frustration and regret that we are forced to make this most unfortunate of announcements," the band tweeted Monday night.

The band's website now lists all dates as canceled through the end of April, although international shows scheduled to begin June 23 in Germany are still on. The canceled shows will be rescheduled for a later date, the band said.

(1/10) As residents of the city of Seattle, we've been hit hard and have witnessed firsthand how quickly these disastrous situations can escalate. Our kids' schools have closed along with universities and businesses. pic.twitter.com/SRcZasIVsk — Pearl Jam (@PearlJam) March 10, 2020

The band said it was worried its tour would encourage travel and gatherings of large groups, which health officials have said should be avoided due to the virus.

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