Zika may affect Miami’s tourism industry

Public health officials have advised pregnant women to avoid travelling in Wynwood, South Florida, despite local tourism leaders trying to attract more tourists to the area

As the first local Zika outbreak in the continental United States has emerged in the Miami area, both Public Health England and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued travel warnings, advising pregnant women to avoid unnecessary trips to South Florida, where 14 cases have been confirmed late last week.

“The risk in Florida is considered moderate based on the number and spread of cases and their demonstrated ability to implement effective control measures for similar diseases such as dengue — a virus transmitted by the same mosquito,” the CDCP warning quotes.

On the other hand, The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau is trying to convince tourists that Zika is no threat for the area, by stating that “travel into Miami and The Beaches remains safe.”

“Pregnant women are encouraged to visit all of Miami-Dade County — except one square mile. That’s what the UK says, that’s what the CDC says,” further commented William D. Talbert III, president and CEO of GMCVB. According to Mr. Talbert, Miami hasn't been affected by the virus spread so far, as no booking cancellations were registered by its organization.

Nevertheless, on Monday, Gov. Rick Scott has called for an emergency team intervention to help prevent the spreading of the virus in Wynwood and across Miami-Dade. Pesticides and other insect repellents are currently being dispersed in the affected area, to prevent further mosquito-borne virus infections.