COVID-19 & Mexico

Who would've thought that a new decade would bring so much stress so early on in the year? COVID-19 has been a total game changer for the travel & tourism industry and most companies are noticing a significant impact. We are certainly no exception. Today we will review how this new virus is impacting Puerto Vallarta. 

As of yesterday, Jalisco (the state of Puerto Vallarta) there were only 6 confirmed cases of COVID-19, however, Governor Enrique Alfarao implemented procedures and protocols to strengthen the preventative action and to keep that number very low. Found on the Out & About PV website the following will be taken in both seaports and airports for those continuing to travel internationally.

• "Detection points will be installed in airports and seaports operating 24 hours a day to provide preventive information to travelers and carry out evaluations through temperature detection and interviews.
• There must be a detailed report of any suspicious passenger aboard before the aircraft or ship arrives in Jalisco and it will be requested to record the information and send it to the health authorities awaiting its arrival.
• Before and after any aircraft or ship’s arrival, it must start operating procedures to take care of the rest of the crew and the general public at the point of entry to Jalisco. After the activities prior to arrival, once in our state, the isolation of any suspected person or persons will be assessed and the corresponding epidemiological study will be applied until the infection is confirmed, ruled out or put the patient under treatment if it is the case. "​

Schools are also taking action to prevent the spread and the following will be set forth:

• There will be no basic level school in the state without sufficient soaps and antibacterials for children and young students.
• Each teacher is receiving all the information necessary to detect, prevent and react to the symptoms of COVID-19 in their classrooms.
• Classes for some universities will take place virtually starting Tuesday; more schools will be added in the following days to the suspension of activities.

According to the Mexicanist website Deputy Health Secretary Hugo Lopez-Gatell announced this morning at the federal government's conference that Mexico will not close commercial borders at this time. The United States and Guatemala have already closed their land borders with Mexico, thus preventing transit from one country to another, with the expectation that this mechanism could prevent the spread of the virus. However air transportation borders are still accessible under the following guidelines that we addressed earlier in the post. 

So, bottom line, is it safe to go to Mexico? In my personal opinion, I feel that what is best for most of us is to allow the panic and hysteria to subside and let's reevaluate where we are at as an economy, a business, an employee, and a family member after the 2 week quarantine is up. Do I think that those who have travel booked towards the end of April and beyond need to cancel immediately? No, not at all. I think canceling now is a bit premature, but if it gives you piece of mind, you are welcome to do so. What an interesting time of 2020 but I am confident we will get through this and come out stronger once it has passed.