As the number of Americans infected with the human swine flu virus continues to grow, so does the concern about the impact it will have on the economy, especially the tourism industry.
The flu outbreak is coming just as schools begin to let out and summer vacations start.
And, that could have a disastrous affect on all aspects of travel.
SWINE FLU RESOURCESSwine influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Swine flu viruses cause high levels of illness and low death rates in pigs. The swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. Like the seasonal flu, swine flu in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe.
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Georgia Divison of Public Health
As a travel destination, Mexico has had enough bad news lately to keep some travelers away.
First, the recession, then drug cartel wars dampened demand and now the swine flu has travelers in fear.
At Diplomat Travel Services in Reston, Virginia the owner says some of her best business and leisure travel clients have canceled trips to Mexico because of swine flu.
And most travel insurance doesn't cover it.
"The exact take is, we do not cover fear, which means you're canceling because you're afraid you're going to get something. We do not cover travel alerts, meaning the State Department puts out a warning they recommend not to travel to a destination. And they do not cover epidemics," said Denise Guida.
But some seasoned travelers say they think swine flu will only be a temporary set back for travel to Mexico.
Several countries have already suspended travel to and from Mexico.
Cuba became the first country to announce a 48-hour suspension of air travel with Mexico on Tuesday, followed by Argentina.
So far, the U.S. has not suspended travel to Mexico, but is urging Americans to be cautious and to avoid unnecessary travel to Mexico for the time being.
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