Qatar Tourism and Exhibitions Authority has supported the move by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and the Tourism Emergency Response Network (TERN) not to place travel restrictions owing to the spread of the swine flu virus, an official said yesterday. A UNWTO statement, supported by the World Health Organisation, states that limiting travel and imposing travel restrictions has very little effect on stopping the spread of the flu virus, and is highly disruptive to the global community. The UNWTO notes that global travel is common place. “The WHO is not recommending travel restrictions but advises that an effective way travellers can protect themselves and others is by continuing to follow simple prevention practices that apply while travelling and in daily life,” it stated. Regular hand-washing, normal cough etiquette, avoiding contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections are a few of the steps travellers can take. Qatar Tourism and Exhibitions Authority chairman Ahmed al-Nuaimi welcomed the statement, saying: “Travel and tourism is essential to the global economy and I welcome the confirmation from WHO and UNWTO that travel restrictions are not required.” He urged travellers from Qatar and around the world to stay informed and check regularly with www.SOS.travel and other resources for the latest updates and information issued by health and travel professionals as the situation evolves. http://gulf-times.com/site/topics/article.asp?cu_no=2&item_no=292773&version=1&template_id=36&parent_id=16

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