THAILAND’S
tourism authority has warned the high profile media coverage of avian influenza
– or bird flu – is hitting the destination’s recovery after Sars, as operators
report some cancellations.
So
far, eight people have died from bird flu – two in Thailand and six in Vietnam.
The
World Health Organisation is now calling for collaboration and funding to
control the spread of bird flu through Asia. Ten countries have been affected
so far including China, although in most countries it has only hit the chicken
population.
Tourism
Authority for Thailand marketing manager Richard Hume said a couple of
operators had reported cancellations, but they were more from Ireland than the
UK.
But
he said: “It is really upsetting because there is such a minimal risk.
Certainly the main tourist areas are not even remotely affected. At this stage
it is not having a devastating effect, but who knows? If the press continue to
make a meal of it Thailand could be more affected.”
TAT
is sending the trade regular updates, but urged agents selling the destination
to reassure customers it is safe.