(CNN) The International Olympic Committee's executive board said Sunday it is considering postponing -- but not canceling -- this summer's Olympic Games in Tokyo because of the coronavirus pandemic.

A week after saying no "drastic decisions" would be made, the IOC board said it is considering a number of options to deal with the ongoing outbreak, including modifying plans to allow the 2020 Tokyo Games to begin on schedule on July 24 or changing the start date for the Games.

The IOC said its scenario-planning will allow for the best decision in the interest of the athletes and everyone involved.

"This step will allow better visibility of the rapidly changing development of the health situation around the world and in Japan," the board said. "It will serve as the basis for the best decision in the interest of the athletes and everyone else involved."

The IOC executive board ruled out canceling the Games, saying it would "destroy the Olympic dream of 11,000 athletes" and all those who support them, according to a letter to athletes from IOC President Thomas Bach.