Forecasters including the International Energy Agency (IEA) have cut 2020 oil demand estimates because of the virus. Though new cases in mainland China have dipped, global experts say it is too early to judge if the outbreak is being contained.
Brent crude LCOc1 was down 82 cents at $56.85 a barrel by 1452 GMT after rallying in the previous five sessions. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude CLc1 fell 70 cents to $51.35.
"Risk aversion has returned to the markets," said Commerzbank analyst Carsten Fritsch.