With all of the Disney parks currently closed, the company is evaluating what changes will be made when it comes time to reopen.
Disney’s former CEO, Bob Iger, said the company will work to determine what they need to address to make people feel safe. Iger also confirmed that Disney may implement mandatory temperature checks to enter the parks.
With that in mind, we reached out to our followers on Instagram to see how they would feel about a temperature check required for park entry. And the results were interesting!
Our followers were eager to weigh in with their temperature check opinions — we received 654 responses in the first 10 minutes! Of those respondents, 449 said, YES, they were definitely on board with temperature checks. Overall, it seems like a popular idea, since 69% of the audience that chimed in said go for it!
But the decision wasn’t unanimous! 122 people said NO, they didn’t like the idea. And 83 people said MAYBE, but they have a few concerns that would determine what side of the fence they land on. Here’s a visual breakdown of the responses!
People also shared the reasons behind their responses — let’s take a look at some of the most common themes!
“YES, Disney Should Perform Temperature Checks!”
With 69% percent of people in favor of temperature checks, it seems like the idea is popular overall. Here are some of the main reasons people said they’re in favor!
“Disney Should Do Whatever They Can to Keep People Healthy”
As expected, many of our respondents said they want Disney to do what’s best for guest and Cast Member safety, and if this could help, they’re all about it!
One reader commented on how this could help improve health conditions across the board, saying, “It would help stop the spread of other illnesses as well.”
Some people expressed that they know the temperature checks would add another step to entering the parks, but they think it would be worth it. As one reader put it, “It would increase lines, but also adds to the safety of the parks. [I’m] all for it if it’s warranted. Safety first!”
“It Would Make Guests Feel Safer”
Other readers in favor of the idea also pointed out that the protective measure would make guests feel safer, and that they would expect these checks, given the circumstances. As one person put it, “I expect this, just like I expected increased security after 9/11.” Given the unprecedented circumstance, people are understandably concerned, and another respondent said, “It could give guests peace of mind after all this.”
Many of our followers think temperature checks would be a positive addition to park security, and they’re prepared to make the adjustment. As one person said, “It’s our reality now!”
Click here to see when our readers will feel safe going back to Disney World!
“Hmm… I Could MAYBE Get On Board, But I Have Some Concerns!”
While many people responded with strong feelings one way or another, 13% of people said they couldn’t decide whether or not they’re okay with temperature checks. There were some common questions that this group said they would need to have answered before making their decision.
“How Will We Know the Reading Is Accurate??”
One concern that popped up frequently was the potential effect that the heat could have on temperature readings. As one person said, “It’s going to be hard in August when everyone is overheating.” Another said, “[I’m] nervous because a lot of people have different temperature averages than 98.6 degrees.”
Given the potential variations, some were worried about being turned away even when they aren’t sick.
“Many Other Non-contagious Things Elevate Temp”
Similarly, some commenters noted that a number of conditions can result in a fever but not be contagious. Anyone who’s ever had a teething baby or a kid with an ear infection know a fever is often a side effect. The same can be said for non-contagious ailments like urinary tract and kidney infections, among other things.
With cases like this, they would pose no threat to guests yet it’s possible they could still be denied entry due to elevated temperatures.
“I’m Okay With It, As Long As Disney Works Out the Kinks”
Others said they were in favor of temperature checks as long as Disney handled it properly. Time was a factor for some, and this reader stated, “I don’t mind it, as long as it’s a quick process.” We can see how that is a concern, as potential bottlenecks could create their own sanitary issues. Speaking of cleanliness, another person said they’re in favor, “As long as it’s sanitary, which I expect it would be.”
The people on the fence expressed some valid concerns, which we hope Disney will address when making their decision!
Click here to see how the current closure could change Disney World forever
“Nope, I Hope Disney Doesn’t Do This!”
Some said that they’re not sold on the idea, and they’re hoping Disney doesn’t decide to go this route! 19% said they’re against the addition of temperature checks. As with the other responses, many people had a similar thought process.
“It Won’t Help If People Are Asymptomatic”
Several respondents said they don’t think temperature checks will help, since people can carry the illness without symptoms. One response stated, “Not everyone infected has a high temperature, so it could be a waste of resources.”
Others noted that even if someone will eventually develop a fever, they could be contagious beforehand.
“People Will Cheat the System”
Others expressed concerns that guests would quickly learn how to bypass the system. One wrote, “[It’s] pointless because people could take fever reducers to lower their fever before coming.”
While the majority of respondents were in favor of Disney adding temperature checks before the park entrances, there were some valid concerns raised as well.
We’ll keep an eye out for any official word from Disney on potential policy changes, but in the meantime, let us know your opinion in the comments!
Click here to see everything we know about the closures in the Disney Parks so far!
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Do you think Disney should require temperature checks before entering the parks? Let us know in the comments!
Leigh says
Absolutely not ok with this….hopefully they won’t go that direction, or we won’t be returning.
Ernest says
There is no “perfect” plan. No guarantees. Only a vaccine will prevent people from contracting coronavirus. All other mediations may reduce the spread, but they will not eliminate the spread. Anyone that chooses to visit a theme park or any place where lots of people gather before there is a vaccine must assume the risk that they might contract covid-19. They must also wear a mask to reduce the spread to others as a courtesy to their fellow human beings. You cannot be selfish and put others at risk.
Karen says
Checking their temperature when they come out of the theme park is ridiculous people want to go home after the theme park they do not want their temperature checked they want to go home
Ernest says
Karen,
Where in the article does it say that Disney will check your temperature when you “come out of the theme park”? They will only check guest temperatures BEFORE guests enter the park.
Now, Disney may have a policy for their cast members that requires them to have their temperatures checked multiple times during the day, but guests will only be checked once before entering the park. Not when guests are leaving.
Please enlighten us with where you got this information because I think that you are mistaken. Please delete or correct your post as it is misinformation.