Comments

1. Amanda says

   March 2, 2020 at 1:19 pm

   Hi! Instead of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, it would be better for travelers to check the Orange County Health Care Agency for more localized information. Although close, Disneyland is in Orange County, not LA County. The LA County Dept of Public Health does not have jurisdiction over Disneyland and would likely not be reporting on cases in OC with the same urgency as the OC Health Care Agency would be. Here’s where individuals can go for information regarding COVID-19 in Orange County, CA: http://www.ochealthinfo.com/phs/about/epidasmt/epi/dip/prevention/novel_coronavirus

2. DFB Sarah says

   March 2, 2020 at 1:35 pm

   Thanks, Amanda!

3. Brooklyn says

   March 2, 2020 at 3:37 pm

   We are leaving next week for our Disney vacation and will be there a full week. I am praying that they remain open! I will be traveling no matter what.

4. Sandra says

   March 2, 2020 at 4:13 pm

   We were in WDW 1/18/2020 thru 1/24/2020. On our last day in the parks, my husband woke up sick,sore throat. As the day went on he got worse.
   We had some really cold days that week and then it rained on the last day. We saw someone at our resort with a mask on the day before, heard her on the phone saying she had never been so sick. I had to drive home to South Carolina, husband so sick, then I got it. We feel we had the flu. Definitely no fun to be sick at WDW.

5. Jhoanna says

   March 2, 2020 at 4:16 pm

   Has Disney released any information for people cruising on DCL?

6. Q says

   March 2, 2020 at 5:48 pm

   I tweeted at WDW and they would only discuss COVID-19 over the phone and not in any form of writing.

7. Jonathan Haggard says

   March 2, 2020 at 6:00 pm

   Hey, I will say that we decided to cancel our Disney World Vacation for Spring Break and though they don’t normally do it, but since it applied to the coronavirus, they offered a refund for my tickets as well.

8. Cynthia Dubuque says

   March 2, 2020 at 6:23 pm

   Have our deposits down for our campsite and rental camper for WDW Aug 18-28th, 2020.. *fingers crossed*

9. Crystal says

   March 2, 2020 at 6:45 pm

   Thank you so much for posting this. We’re headed to DW next week for my daughter’s bday – both our first time to go – and obviously we’re worried about potentially cancelling this trip. Fingers crossed people are able to stay healthy in general.

10. Jimmy Douglas says

    March 2, 2020 at 7:43 pm

    Was at WDW last week and 75% of the hand sanitizers were empty or not working…..

11. Natasha says

    March 2, 2020 at 8:31 pm

    I’m traveling to WDW in 2 weeks and am a bit worried.. it’s really putting a damper on on my vacation plans. Trying not to worry though but I can’t help it. 😞

12. Health care professional says

    March 2, 2020 at 8:46 pm

    I work in the health care profession around Disney and you are foolish to travel here. There is virtually no way to contain this virus once it gets here, and it probably is here already. If it wasn’t for my family’s livelihood, I wouldn’t go within miles of the place.

13. Kimberly Dube says

    March 2, 2020 at 8:53 pm

    I have vacation plans in mid April headed to Disney World, Orlando. We will be be there for 5 days, camping at Fort Wilderness. We are going to the theme park for 1 of the days. It will be myself, my husband, and my 9 year old daughter.

14. Sabrina says

    March 2, 2020 at 9:10 pm

    My family has decided for a second year in a row to reschedule our attempt at a spring break trip to Disney world. I have been wanting to stay at Disney world for a week for my whole life, but the NORA virus (I hope I said that correctly) convinced us that this year didn’t seem like a good spring to go for a week long trip. Maybe this fall will be better.

15. Lynn says

    March 2, 2020 at 9:12 pm

    Anyone have recommendations for travel insurance that was protect against cancellations as a result of medical issues like travel bans or park closures?

16. Mark S says

    March 2, 2020 at 9:23 pm

    I’m currently at WDW on vacation. If/when this disease spreads more widely, WDW will be an optimum place to contract it. When riding all the rides, I see how many surfaces we touch and the number of people who cycle through. I’m personally not concerned for my own safety as COVID19 primarily and disproportionately affects the elderly and at risk populations. Maybe that population should begin to reconsider travel to WDW for the time being.

17. Kelly B says

    March 2, 2020 at 9:47 pm

    I just went to WDW at the end of January. We all came home with the flu. Not something we brought with us since: two live in Dallas, one lives in Virginia, one was on a Navy vessel, one was at Walter Reed hospital in Maryland.
    Not a souvenir we wanted.

18. Haden says

    March 2, 2020 at 9:54 pm

    Thanks for the information. Though I believe it is the Centers for disease control and prevention.

19. Jenny says

    March 2, 2020 at 10:21 pm

    My daughter’s senior trip to WDW is next month. Yes, I’m nervous.

20. Michelle says

    March 2, 2020 at 10:25 pm

    Just went and it was definitely less crowded. Didn’t see any extra cleaning measures being taken.

21. Meg U. says

    March 2, 2020 at 10:43 pm

    I’m taking my Mom to Disney World for her 65th birthday in May. I’ve paid for everything (travelling from Canada) and I’m so worried 😰

22. Debra says

    March 2, 2020 at 10:47 pm

    As a 62yr old Passholder I worry about not being able to visit the parks as much as I usually do as I worry about coming in contact with the virus. I am wondering if the Disney organization will take this in consideration and extend the time or refund a portion of the money.

23. Jennifer Danesi says

    March 3, 2020 at 12:14 am

    We will be at WDW next Monday through Thursday. We’re still watching and waiting to see how things go. We have lots of antibacterial and plan on washing our hands A LOT!

24. Sangeeta says

    March 3, 2020 at 12:45 am

    After over 20 years of AP membership we have decided to NOT renew our annual passes because there appears to be little ability to control transmission. The parks naturally create high risk scenarios with lines keeping people packed in tightly with no where to go. Also, the food is often exposed since many locations are quick service and limited guard of the food which is served from hot plates or cafeteria style. Lastly, amusement parks naturally draw travelers who come in contact with other travelers or who have been on transports where exposure is less able to be controlled. Better safe than sorry…

25. Emelie from Sweden says

    March 3, 2020 at 2:40 am

    I’m going to WDW in three weeks but I don’t worry much actually, probably because I’m already in a Disney bubble of happiness 😀

26. Debbie says

    March 3, 2020 at 6:48 am

    We are planning our Granddaughter first trip to Disneyworld, in September.
    We are very concerned our Granddaughter has lung issues as it is. So what happens if they close the park do we get money back for tickets?

27. Lou says

    March 3, 2020 at 8:52 am

    Article title “here’s what we know”…first paragraph “we don’t know what precautionary measures Disney will take”…thanks for saving me time reading this.

28. Pam says

    March 3, 2020 at 10:45 am

    Im worried as Im elderly and have a health issue. Dont know whether to travel.

29. Don says

    March 3, 2020 at 11:50 am

    Coronavirus, the virus, is technically called SARS-CoV-2; the disease it gives you is what’s called CoViD-19 (CoronaVirus Disease; see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Severe_acute_respiratory_syndrome_coronavirus_2). I know the media has been using the terms incorrectly, but it’s important to be precise when you can. It’s also worth mentioning that Coronaviruses, like Rhinoviruses, are what causes the common cold. As a category, they’re not new or scary; this one is just especially aggressive in some people. People most at-risk are very young children, people over 60, and people with compromised or suppressed immune systems.

    It’s also not a bad idea to take a travel pack of disinfecting wipes, such as those made by Clorox and Lysol. They’re good for wiping down a table before you sit down to eat, for example, since the virus is able to live the longest outside a human body on hard, nonporous surfaces like tables (although then only ~10 minutes).

    Thanks for the well-written piece!

30. RJ says

    March 3, 2020 at 12:44 pm

    Traveling with our family to WDW in April with two toddlers, my son with special needs and my husband. I’m a fulltime caregiver to my elderly father, so I’m a bit concerned.

31. Joe says

    March 3, 2020 at 2:25 pm

    My family and I are planning on going in april this will be our last trip to disney due to being tired of all the price increases we are hopeful that since it will probably be our last trip to disney that our trip dose no get cancelled due to the virus.

32. TM says

    March 3, 2020 at 9:32 pm

    Supposed to be at WDW 3/11. Worried about potential of quarantine or similar issues while there. How would Disney handle quarantine if guests get stuck there? It could get extremely expensive or problematic.

33. coronavirus says

    March 4, 2020 at 7:34 am

    Nice blog… These are the precautions to be taken to be safe from coronavirus

34. Sarala says

    March 4, 2020 at 9:48 am

    I’m going to WDW next month~
    This will mess up my vacation a little more than anticipated Disney will not let this affect anyone who is trying to have a good time in their parks. And I certainly feel grateful fort the vaccines in the medical help we have today then what people had in the 1700s.(IDK just roll with it so far 😁) but to be positive about this is probably the best way to go at least you get to still go on vacation right? Thanks DFB you are always on the ball! (This might be accidentally posted twice)

35. John says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:01 am

    We’re coming to Disney World and I’m nervous to be going through the airport more than anything. Gonna be wearing snowboard gloves through the place 😂

36. JD says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:07 am

    People, People, People… have you not heard of the flu… The CDC says that last year 29,000,000 cases of the Flu were reports and over 300,000 died… Can this Virus be worse than that? of course it could, but it isn’t… washing your hands and not snotting on the people around you, is a very basic requirement for being human… stop panicing and enjoy your holidays and be a decent human being…

37. Jodie says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:11 am

    I’m heading off to Florida at the end of April. I’m so scared the parks will be closed or flights cancelled 🙁

38. Pris says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:19 am

    I think the virus is a bit over rated and the media isn’t helping to keep people calm. Just be vigilant and you should be fine. I’m going to WDW in May and have no worries what so ever.

39. Denise Connolly says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:22 am

    Hi Natasha
    Myself and my 3 kids are going in 3 wks and feeling anxious about it all too. Be flying from Ireland so 10 hrs on a plane but hopefully once we get there all will be fine and get bit sunshine and have a great hol but it’s the not knowing if flights be cancelled or ending up stuck there just lots reading up and just trying be prepared but just want to enjoy it all too

40. Kristen says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:25 am

    We head to WDW in 11 days. I’ve spent days agonizing over this and the trip that I had previously been super excited about, I was so bummed over. Personally, I’m excited once again and have come to the following conclusion after talking to my children’s pediatrician (talk to your own doctor too… I’m only communicating what I was told and not offering medical advice). Our pediatrician said that she does not feel the need to restrict travel for my family. COVID-19 should be treated as any other virus going around right now. Just as all experts have been recommending, she reminded me to wash hands, use hand sanitizer, move away from anyone coughing and just use common sense. 2 of my kids are asthmatic and she felt there was no increased concern even considering this. We still plan to go… the threat of flu, strep, GI viruses doesn’t keep us away, so neither will COVID-19. My bigger concern right now is if the parks close or the CDC issues a domestic travel warning, especially while we’re there and I have to hassle with changing plans for my large family while away from home. I’m trying not to focus on that though. Just sharing and hoping that I can help offer comfort/support to make anyone else feel better. Make the decision that’s best for your family. Thanks for the updates, DFB!

41. Jill says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:27 am

    I think your article is a great example of how the media SHOULD be conveying this story….. about prevention, not scare tactics. While yes, it’s serious, what is important is cleanliness and prevention. People just need to be smart and sensible and not cause widespread panic. Our trip is planned for June and I’m bringing hand sanitizer, and we’re going to have an awesome time.

42. CeCe says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:42 am

    There have been over 29 million cases of the Flu and over 20,000 deaths this Flu season in the U.S. alone. People should be more concerned with getting the Flu, than Covid-19. I think the fear is from the unknown and the constant news coverage.

    I am a nurse, and the best advice is to wash your hands and do not touch anything in public and then touch your face. Disney has a lot of interactive things to touch in their queues which should be avoided. Do not touch anything that throngs of people are touching while waiting in line and then touch your face. This should be a consideration all the time, not just because of this virus scare. If you can’t help but to touch things around the park, just be sure to wash your hands before touching your face or eating. Facemasks should only be worn by people who are sick so they don’t spread their germs to others, or by healthcare workers who have to get very close to provide medical care. Also, if you are sick, stay home and do not go out and infect everyone else.

    Just use common sense and enjoy your Disney vacation! Hey, maybe the crowds will be lower because people are needlessly canceling their vacations.

43. Patrick says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:46 am

    Are they taking extra precautions in cleaning the actual resort rooms much better than usual

44. kim champion says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:51 am

    Thank you!! We have a trip planned in May. Hoping things are good by then!

45. Ann Marie Palmer says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:52 am

    Traveling mid April to Disney World. Please keep us posted.

46. Ingrid Goodman says

    March 4, 2020 at 11:57 am

    Our family has a Disney World trip in April. One of my biggest worries is that someone could get sick while were there. How would one deal with being quarantined in Florida? That would be a pretty big.

47. Carla Jensen says

    March 4, 2020 at 12:02 pm

    Your article suggests coughing into your hand. This is not best practice as you then have potential to touch many things before you can wash. It is better to bring your arm up and cough into the inside of your elbow.

48. Jennifer says

    March 4, 2020 at 12:03 pm

    We are traveling to Disney World in April. I am not concerned. I agree with previous comments to be informed but there is no need for mass hysteria or panic. Be smart, wash your hands when you can and keep lots of hand sanitizer on you at all times. I appreciate that Disney is putting up stations as well.

49. Tina Ziobakas says

    March 4, 2020 at 12:17 pm

    I have been reading a lot of articles and they say the corona virus presents like the common cold in most people. Their concern is for people with respiratory issues, and as always, the elderly.

    I’m planning a trip to Disney World in November, and as long as they don’t shut it down, I will be going. Maybe it will mean less wait time lol.

    Go and have a blast! Just bring hand sanitizer 🙂

50. Janet says

    March 4, 2020 at 12:22 pm

    Excellent report! I was thinking, it wouldnt be too hard for the parks to set up portable hand washing stations everywhere. There are often long lines for the bathrooms especially womens. I am glad they have set up purell dispensers, one at the entrance or exit, of every ride would be perfect as a full time thing! We just got home from Disneyland on thursday, saw a lot of people at LAX fumbling around with facemasks, one woman kept taking it off and on, eating then putting it back on, touching her face 100% more than if she wasnt wearing it! Smh we got through our 10 day holiday and 2 plane flights/airports safely, no face masks, just all the precautions you mention! Even our 5 year old knew what to do/not do. Also shocking at the park how many parents are literally not watching their kids!! Saw so many kids putting their mouths on handrails, picking noses etc. Made me want to wear gloves! Lol common sense is a rare endangered flower now!