COVID-19 UPDATE

Posted: March 2, 2020
Updated: March 5, 2020

In light of recent reports on the COVID-19’s effect on travel, we would like to update you on the current situation in Mexico.

The latest on COVID-19

The number of confirmed cases remains extremely low (five as of the time of writing), with officials moving quickly to put all in isolation as a precautionary measure.

Mexico remains at the very lowest risk level possible for all health issues for travelers, according to the experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Furthermore, there are no travel restrictions to or within Mexico. There are also no closures or restrictions placed on any experiences or activities within Mexico.

As is normal for Journey Mexico, we will continually monitor the situation within the country and inform you of any changes before or during your travels.

It’s important to emphasize that Mexico has had very little exposure to COVID-19 and remains a world-class vacation destination.

How we’re helping to ease travel concerns

We understand that some travelers are concerned about COVID-19 affecting their up-coming travel plans to Mexico. To make things as easy as possible, we are doing the following.

Deposits

Temporarily waiving non-refundable deposits on new bookings wherever possible.

Postponements/date changes

Allowing travelers to postpone or change travel dates with zero/minimal fees or penalties.

Cancellations

Offering travelers 100% credit for rebooking with extended (or indefinite) time frames in which to use the credit, whenever possible.

Please note: On the occasions when we are working with suppliers with more stringent deposit policies, we´ve negotiated to relax those policies as much as possible.

Journey Mexico Tips for Minimizing Infection Risk

Take private transportation

Taking private transportation will minimize the risk of catching an illness in a crowded transportation hub, such as an airport. Journey Mexico can help to organize privately chartered planes and helicopters throughout Mexico.

Stay in private villas

If you’re worried about transmission in hotels or resorts, private villas are an excellent alternative. Many of the luxury villas in our elite portfolio offer resort-style amenities, including staff. Journey Mexico can also help to arrange additional staff if desired.

Enjoy off-hours access

Should you wish to visit major landmarks but without the crowds, Journey Mexico enjoys privileged, off-hours access to some of Mexico’s most beloved landmarks. This includes trips to Chichen Itza, the National Anthropology Museum, and Tulum’s archeological ruins.

 

More on COVID-19

What is it?

The new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, was initially discovered in Wuhan City in the Hubei Province of China.

It is a newly discovered member of the coronavirus family, which also includes the common cold, SARS, and MERS. According to the World Health Organization, symptoms include fever and difficulty breathing.

Guidelines and preventative measures

The World Health Organization has released standard practices for reducing the chance of catching COVID-19 while traveling. Their advice includes:

  • Cleaning hands regularly using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water
  • Coughing into a flexed elbow or tissue (immediately throwing the tissue away) and washing hands after
  • Distancing yourself from anyone with a fever or cough
  • Avoiding direct unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces with contact to live animals in areas affected by COVID-19
  • Avoiding eating raw or undercooked animal products.
  • Handling raw meat, milk, and animal organs with care by avoiding cross-contamination and following good food safety practices

 

Myths surrounding COVID-19

There has been a lot of information on the internet regarding COVID-19. All travelers must be provided with the facts, rather than speculation and rumor. Below are some myths about COVID-19 the WHO would like to quash.

Myth: Pets can spread COVID-19

Currently, there is no proof that pets, including cats and dogs, can spread COVID-19. However, the WHO recommends washing your hands after contact with pets to prevent common bacteria such as E.coli and salmonella from passing between pets and humans.

Myth: COVID-19 only affects older people

Everyone can be infected with COVID-19, no matter what age you are. Older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions do appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill.

Myth: Antibiotics can treat the virus

Antibiotics do not treat any virus, they only work against bacteria. Therefore, antibiotics will not prove effective.

Myth: Medicines can prevent or treat COVID-19

Currently, there are no medicines that prevent or treat COVID-19. However, researchers are trying to develop specific treatments.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

We look forward to seeing you and showing you the many wonders of Mexico.