Message to World Show Exhibitors From FWCVB Regarding Ebola Concerns

Message to World Show Exhibitors from Fort Worth Convention & Visitors Bureau- (October 17, 2014)

We are looking forward to hosting you in Fort Worth. We understand there may be some concerns about the recent cases of the Ebola virus in Dallas. Please know that we are closely monitoring the situation with local, state and federal health officials, who have made it clear that the public at large is not at risk. We want to share this information with you and encourage you, in turn, to share it as needed with your customers and attendees.

There have been no cases of the Ebola virus reported in Tarrant County, which includes the greater Fort Worth area. To date, there have been three diagnosed cases of Ebola occurring in the United States, all of which have been treated at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas. The Center for Disease Control and the Tarrant County Public Health Department are confident that people in our community are safe.

It’s important to know that the Ebola virus is not spread through casual contact and is not an airborne disease. It is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids, and a person must have symptoms to spread Ebola to others. The two cases identified this week are health care providers who treated the original U.S. patient, who traveled to Texas from Liberia.

The U.S. Travel Association, our industry’s voice in Washington, is closely monitoring and is in regular contact with the White House and Administration officials. They have expressed to Administration leaders the need for clear guidance for travel professionals and have urged for a responsible approach that both protects public health and minimizes disruptions to interstate travel and commerce. You can read a statement prepared by the U.S. Travel Association here.

Here are some helpful links to the latest information from public health organizations:

Centers for Disease Control

Tarrant County Public Health Department

Again, we look forward to hosting you in Fort Worth! Please feel free to contact us with any further questions about your stay here.

Bob Jameson

President and CEO Fort Worth Convention & Visitors Bureau