Travel industry responds to Zika virus concerns

Amid growing concern over the widely-publicized Zika virus, travel councils and organizations have issued advisories that will help travel agents better serve their clients. 

The Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) issued a statement Feb. 1 regarding the Zika virus after receiving a number of calls from concerned travel professionals.

In a release,  TICO reminded its registered agents that they have a duty to warn consumers of current reports surrounding the Zika virus. TICO also stated that travel agents may also have a continuing obligation to inform customers of a deteriorating situation in the travel destination after the travel services have been reserved.  

These are responsibilities that fall under the 2002 Travel Industry Act and Ontario Regulation 26/05.  To read TICO’s complete advisory click here. 

Following recommendations by the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has declared that there should be no restrictions on travel to regions affected by the Zika virus.

In an updated statement on the Zika virus, which is known to cause neurological disorders and birth defects, UNWTO advised the following travel measures:

• There should be no restrictions on travel or trade with countries, areas and/or territories with Zika virus transmission.
• Travellers to areas with Zika virus transmission should be provided with up-to-date advice on potential risks and appropriate measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to mosquito bites.
• Standard WHO recommendations regarding disinfection of aircraft and airports should be implemented.

UNWTO stated that it will continue to monitor the situation alongside WHO and the relevant tourism authorities. 

UNWTO also stated that health and tourism authorities are working with inform residents, tourists as well as the industry about the precautions that should be taken.

Major Canadian carriers have responded to the Zika virus after global airlines, such as United Airlines and American Airlines in the U.S., announced they were issuing refunds and travel credits to concerned travellers. 

The Public Health Agency of Canada has advised pregnant women, in particular, to take extra precautions against mosquito bites when travelling to areas in Central and South America where Zika outbreaks have been reported.