Most Americans would not cancel and upcoming vacation because of the coronavirus threat, but would cancel an international business trip, according to a new series of polls conducted by Reservations.com. One survey shows that respondents predict the global travel industry will suffer from the outbreak.
The global death toll of the coronavirus sits at more than 2,400 deaths with the vast majority in China’s Hubei province, the center of the outbreak, with over 2,300 deaths. As of February 22, 2020 there were over 64,000 cases in the epicenter of the outbreak, with over 40,000 patients hospitalized. Only 17 deaths have occurred outside of mainland China so far, in Iran, Japan, Hong Kong, Italy, and South Korea.
While the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-2019) continues to grab headlines, as of late February, 2020, the vast majority of Americans (66%) are not likely to cancel an upcoming vacation. 16% are somewhat likely to cancel an upcoming trip, and 18% are very likely to cancel.
Breaking it down by demographics showed little difference, 19% of women were very likely to cancel a vacation, while 17.5% of men were very likely to cancel.
The least likely to cancel was the 25-34 age group, where a full 70% reported they were not likely to cancel.
The survey showed very different results for international business trips, however.
Most Americans would consider canceling an international business trip because of coronavirus
The responses swung the other direction when asked about the possibility of canceling an international business trip, with a total of 63% indicating they would probably, very probably, or definitely cancel.
While the World Health Organization is not currently advising travel restrictions or cancellations outside of parts of China, this survey does demonstrate an increased fear of international travel, regardless of official guidance.