The coronavirus outbreak has forced the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) to postpone its annual global convention, which was due to be held in Milan on May 6-9.
Italy is the worst-hit country in Europe and the Italian government has taken measures to isolate 10 towns in the north.
It has also ordered school and university closures throughout Italy and all sporting fixtures will be played behind closed doors.
The US-based travel association said it is “determined” to host its annual conference in the northern Italian city but will now hold the event in September or October.
A statement from IGLTA said: “We must be prudent and sensitive to health and safety precautions and to the actual conditions on the ground.
“We believe firmly in the resilience of travel and want to be part of the industry’s recovery when COVID- 19 has been contained with confidence. We must, however, give all our participants and leaders time to prepare.”
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It added: “The outbreak of the coronavirus has left all of us with many unknowns. We will announce new dates and plans as soon as possible.
“We will join you in monitoring the situation closely through our Italian governmental contacts and trusted sources such as the World Health Organisation.”
The annual IGLTA convention brings travel professionals from around the world together for networking and offers the chance to take fam trips in and around the host city.
The statement added: “We also love showcasing destinations within our network, like this year’s host city, Milan, and we look forward to seeing you there.”