Disney Parks, Experiences and Products' Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Pamela Hymel, has released a statement regarding COVID-19, commonly known as novel coronavirus 2019.
If you don't know about the COVID-19 virus, the CDC is responding to an outbreak of the respiratory disease caused by a new coronavirus that was first detected in China and which has now been detected in almost 90 locations internationally, including in the United States. On January 31, 2020, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex M. Azar II declared a public health emergency for the United States to aid the nation’s healthcare community in responding to COVID-19.
Many guests have become concerned with the outbreak of the virus and Disney has responded with a statement released by their Chief Medical Officer:
As you may know from the news, COVID-19, commonly known as novel coronavirus 2019, has become a more widespread concern. As part of our commitment to the health and well-being of our cast, guests and the larger community, we are carefully monitoring the evolving coronavirus situation and are in regular contact with health agencies for information and guidance.
Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, are welcoming guests as usual and we continue to implement preventive measures in line with the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health agencies.
Walt Disney World, Disneyland and all of our parks and resorts around the world have high standards of cleanliness, which assists with illness prevention, and we have health and safety protocols in place, such as:
Training for cast members, with ongoing reinforcement on a regular basis
Defined cycles for frequent cleaning and disinfection of targeted areas
Easy access to handwashing facilities and hand sanitizers
Quick response to spills, trash and other situations
End of day sanitation procedures for restroom, kitchen, and other facilities
Frequent cleaning and “wash down” of outdoor locations, including walkways and queues
Additionally, our onsite health teams and leaders are communicating with our cast members about illness prevention, including the guidance of the CDC. The CDC recommends everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs, such as staying home when sick, washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, following proper respiratory cough etiquette, avoiding close contact with people who are sick and avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
The CDC provides more detailed coronavirus information on its website and as always, your personal physician is a valuable resource for specific medical questions you may have. If you have any questions about visiting Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort, please call 407-WDisney.
Please visit Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort to learn more about our health and safety measures for the coronavirus.
Thank you,
Dr. Pamela Hymel
Chief Medical Officer