One virus-themed episode on "SpongeBob SquarePants" has been removed, while another has been removed because the story was not suitable for children, a Nickelodeon representative told NBC News on Wednesday.

"The 'quarantined crab' is not being broadcast because of the sensitivity surrounding the global pandemic in the real world," said Nickelodeon chief executive David Bittler.

The episode of season 12 is set in Krusty Krab, the fast food restaurant where SpongeBob works. A health inspector tells employees and customers that someone out there has a "Virus" and quarantines everyone inside, causing panic.

Another episode, season 3 "Mid-Life Crustacean," has not aired since 2018 "after a review of standards in which it was determined that some elements of the story were not child-friendly," Bittler said.

In that episode, SpongeBob boss, Mr. Krabs, feels old and wants to stay one night with SpongeBob and his best friend Patrick. The strange night ends with the threesome entering a woman's house and stealing her underwear. The three are quickly caught by their mark - who turns out to be Mr. Mom and Krabs.