04 November 2009

Survey: meetings not being cancelled by Swine Flu

Bottles of sanitizers are getting more common than mints at meetings but most people are not canceling events because of swine flu, according to a new survey from the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE).

ACTE surveyed corporate travel managers at 105 international companies early this month and found that almost two-thirds have serious concerns about the spread of swine flu while more than one-third were not worried about it. Only 9 percent are holding off on meetings and conferences because of it while 91 percent aren't.

"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, nor have they warranted any special consideration outside of their overall disaster contingency planning," ACTE Executive Director Susan Gurley said in a statement. She added:

"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."

According to the ACTE survey, only about one-third percent of companies have a plan or instructions for travelers who may get caught up in airport screenings with flu-like symptoms. Most companies, however, are urging employees and travelers to stay home if they're feeling ill — regardless of their symptoms.

By David Wilkening