RP safe despite H1N1 threat

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Tourism (DOT) yesterday assured foreign travelers that there is no reason to panic because the country remains a safe destination despite the continuing threat of influenza A(H1N1).

Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano said the Philippines is proactive and prepared to respond to a possible influenza outbreak.

Durano issued the statement in response to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration that Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, continues to experience widespread cases of the virus.

He said tourists coming to the Philippines are assured that all monitoring procedures are being implemented and coordination with regional tourism offices is maintained to guarantee appropriate action.

He added that tourism stakeholders are working closely and taking appropriate action to respond positively to the growing concern and help educate travelers on practical steps to prevent the spread of the virus.

“Knowing that the A(H1N1) virus is not an airborne virus but transmitted via water droplets, it is important for travelers to practice necessary precautions through strict personal hygiene, regular hand washing, and etiquette,” Durano said.

He also encouraged travelers showing symptoms of influenza before, during or after a trip to seek immediate medical attention. 

According to Durano, the DOT agrees with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), which recently convened to anticipate the challenges the virus will bring, to ensure that the travel and tourism sectors are prepared.

In the two-day review and preparation exercise on “Travel and Tourism under Pandemic Conditions” held in Madrid last August, it was emphasized that after a thorough presentation by the WHO, travel restrictions would not limit the spread of A(H1N1) because it is already “the dominant influenza strain in most parts of the world.”