SHOULD WE BELIEVE THE HYPE AND HYSTERIA?

Okay, so we work in travel and are probably more used to dealing with the regular problems thrown at us over the years.  We thought we had seen it all, with volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, tornados, hurricanes, earthquakes, forrest fires, swine flu, terrorist attacks, heatwaves, flooding, oil spills, currency fluctuations, airlines and tour operators going bust, transport disasters, military coups, outbreaks of war… amongst those we have encountered.  However, the latest coronavirus (known as Covid 19) is something we are finding tough to comprehend.  Much remains unknown about the virus, including how many people may have very mild or asymptomatic infections, and whether they can transmit the virus. The precise dimensions of the outbreak are still hard to know. The general feeling is that it appears to be less fatal than the coronaviruses that caused SARS or MERS, but significantly more so than the seasonal flu. In one recent study, the death rate was over 2%, versus flu at 1%.

Putting things into perspective.  One of the worst days for the Covid 19 was the 10^th February.  On that day, over 26,000 people died of cancer, over 24,000 people died of heart disease, 4,300 died of diabetes and suicide took more lives than the virus by 28 times globally.

From a travelling point of view.  Now could be the time to target your ‘bucket list’.  Why not take advantage of the amazing deals on offer.  Enjoy the extra space due to empty seats on aeroplanes, the less crowded hotels and tourist hotspots.  Yes, it has to be said, do take precautions to avoid catching or spreading germs….so…..take a deep breath, wash your hands and see the world!

Article written by Jonathan Wilkins from Select Representation, who offer sales and marketing for hotels and destination management companies within Asia Pacific, Americas and more.  GTRA founder members.