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As concerns about the Covid-19 coronovirus spread around the globe, a coalition of 150 travel organizations on Tuesday urged Americans to stay calm and make fact-based decisions about travel.

The coalition includes the U.S. Travel Association, CLIA, Airlines for America, ASTA, American Hotel & Lodging Association, U.S. Tour Operators Association and a host of destination marketing organizations.

“Health and government officials have continually assured the public that healthy Americans can confidently travel in this country,” the groups wrote. “While it’s critically important to remain vigilant and take useful precautions in times like these, it’s equally important to make calm, rational, and fact-based decisions.

“The latest expert guidance indicates that for the overwhelming majority, it’s OK to live, work, play and travel in the U.S. By seeking and heeding the latest expert guidance — which includes vigorous use of good health practices, similar to the preventive steps recommended for the seasonal flu — America’s communities will stay strong and continue to thrive.”

The groups warned that canceling travel and events “has a trickle-down effect that threatens to harm the U.S. economy, from locally owned hotels, restaurants, travel advisors and tour operators to the service and frontline employees who make up the backbone of the travel industry and the American economy.”

They also vowed to remain in close contact with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Departments of Homeland Security and Health and Human Services, and to take enhanced steps “to ensure both the safety of travelers, guests and our own employees.”

Source: travelweekly.com