Plan Your Meetings

H1N1 outbreaks not curtailing travel

Last month, President Obama declared a State of National Emergency due to rampant outbreaks of the influenza A (H1N1) virus. However, according to a recent survey by the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE), it is not expected to affect the majority of corporate travel plans.

Although 63 percent of the 105 companies surveyed expressed concern over the spread of the H1N1 virus, only 9 percent plan to delay meetings or conferences until after the flu season; and only 6 percent have had attendees request not to fly during flu season. As a precaution, 34 percent said they have readiness plans for attendees who may be subjected to airport flu screenings.

“Though a majority of corporations have indicated they have ’serious concerns’ about the potential threat of the H1N1 influenza, these concerns are not yet carrying over into the travel planning process for the remainder of 2009 and 2010,” stated Susan Gurley, executive director of ACTE. “Nor have they warranted any special consideration outside of their overall disaster contingency planning.

“[However,]” Gurley warns. “On one hand, it is commendable that companies are not giving in to panic. Yet, on the other hand, this is a situation that can develop very quickly and it is very important that the appropriate arrangements be put in place.”

For more information, visit ACTE.org or Flu.gov.