China Sets Tourism Standards for SARS Prevention

China Sets Tourism Standards for SARS Prevention

China's National Tourism Administration and Ministry of Health have issued public information for all travel agencies and the industry's businesses on required emergency procedures for the prevention of the virus. The publication covers the preventive measures for travel agencies, star hotels, tourists spots, restaurants, and tourist buses and ships. All measures are to be implemented completely and quickly. Following are the major measures. 1. Set up SARS prevention and control groups. Heads of these organizations are to make clear each department's responsibility. 2. The total cleaning of all tourist reception places and public facilities. 3. Emergency medical stations in tourist spots and a comprehensive work schedule to deal with any emergencies. 4. Raise staff health#-consciousness and educate them on all SARS symptoms and preventive measures. 5. Screen travelers for SARS symptoms and advise them to avoid traveling or boarding. 6. Immediately report travelers with SARS symptoms to local prevention and control groups. 7. Separate such travelers after making the report. 8. Set up a complete SARS reporting system. The National Tourism Administration also has advice for travelers during the May Day holiday. They should avoid SARS-affected areas and crowded indoor activities. Instead, the administration suggests farming holidays, working out, and countryside vacations.