There’s a lot of panic, rumors and media hype flying about regarding the swine flu (aka H1N1 strain of influenza) and wheher or not it’s safe to travel, fly on airplanes, visit cities where cases have been reported, etc.

So I checked the travel & tourism bureaus of the major US states and cities affected by the swine flu, and listed below are their official statements.  Let’s start with the U.S. Travel Association, and then we’ll move down to the individual states.

“Travelers, like all citizens, should heed the advice of experts when determining how best to manage health concerns. According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Swine Influenza (swine flu) should not discourage people from traveling to or within the United States.” - USTA

“No reason to avoid traveling to the five boroughs. Contrary to reports, all known cases have direct links to either Mexico or the St. Francis Preparatory school in Queens. Most have suffered only minor illness – and as far as is known, all of the affected people, including a 19-month-old child from the Bronx, are recovering.” - NYC & Company

“Right now, experts are saying it is safe to continue with planned travel to and within the United States, including to the San Diego region. San Diego International Airport and all the major San Diego beaches, attractions, hotels, and other visitor offerings remain open for business and do not anticipate any interruption in service. The International Visitors Information Center (IVIC), operated by the San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau, is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm PST and can be reached by calling (619) 236-1212.” - San Diego CVB

“As in cities around the world, more cases are expected and the vast majority of people will recover without hospitalization. All businesses, facilities, and attractions in San Francisco continue to operate normally.  No special events or public gatherings have been cancelled. These types of  “infodemics” can have negative effects long after the virus has abated.   Unnecessary panic has the potential to paralyze travel and lengthen the ongoing economic crisis. ” - Only In San Francisco

Posted on May 1st, 2009 by PLing
Filed under: Travel Health