TUSCALOOSA, Ala —
The huge technology convention in Austin, Texas, South by Southwest, is canceled. Facebook, Twitter, and Netflix have already announced they were backing out due to the coronavirus outbreak. Virus fears have many people thinking twice about traveling, but others say they are still heading out of town.
Hayley Bardos and three of her University of Alabama friends planned a cruise to the Bahamas months ago, and while there is a slight concern, they aren't letting what's going on across the world stop their spring break. The cruise line they booked is offering an incentive for people who keep their travel reservations. In the coming weeks, hundreds of thousands of people will be taking their Spring Break vacations despite the coronavirus outbreak.
"As of now they are not canceling the cruise which is great. They are saying they are following all their health codes, but I think a lot of people are pulling out of the cruises which is fair," Bardos said.
"My mom is shipping me a package with some wipes and hand sanitizer, so that's sweet because all the stores here are sold out."
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Bardos received an email from Carnival notifying passengers of a credit if they chose to keep their travel plans to the Bahamas. Doctors across the country and the CDC are asking people to be prepared when they travel.
"We think though that it can survive for a few hours sometimes on surfaces but not for long periods of time. So it is probably important to wipe down public areas that you might be using, telephones and that sort of thing," said Dr. Steve Threlkeld, an Infectious Disease Specialist from Baptist East Hospital.
Dr. Threlkeld says people should practice hand hygiene. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. A common misconception is rushing to get a face mask, the CDC says it's not necessary.
"The main thing is shaking hands with someone who has the virus and then scratching or touching your face," Dr. Threlkeld said.
Bardos is remaining cautious.
"People are worried getting stuck in their locations. I think my friends’ biggest fear too, what if we are quarantined on this boat," Bardos stressed.
Local 24 News checked with Amtrak and Airlines. They say they are increasing cleaning and sanitation efforts, but if you have travel plans in the near future and are still worried, many airlines and Amtrak will let you change your reservations without a fee.