Sars hits bookings to Far East
Hong Kong: Massive fall in visitors – but rugby showpiece goes ahead
Leisure bookings to Hong Kong are thought to have fallen by three quarters following news of the outbreak of a serious respiratory illness in the region.
Some 52 people have now died from Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (Sars) with schools in Hong Kong and Singapore closed and many people wearing protective face masks on the streets.
A spokesman for Cathay Pacific told the Daily Telegraph that bookings were well down, and that face masks were now being carried on all flights to and from the region: “We are following the World Health Organisation’s guidelines that it is safe to fly. Should we see any signs of Sars the affected passenger will be isolated and masks issued.”
In Hong Kong, long-awaited concerts by the Rolling Stones have been cancelled but the famous Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament is going ahead despite Italy, France and Argentina withdrawing from the event. Spectators at the event will be offered free “face scarves” by organisers.
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