There has been much global consternation regarding the announcement by Disney World, Florida, in the United States, that it was commencing a phased re-opening from Saturday 11 July 2020, despite Florida recording its largest weekly increase in COVID-19 cases last week. In the past seven days, the state added almost 67,000 cases, reported the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Florida is regarded as a US hot spot, with 244,000 active cases across the state, as at 11 July 2020, according to the Florida Department of Health.
Walt Disney World says it has ‘… taken enhanced health and safety measures’ and these include pre-visit reservations, temperature checks and mandatory masks for all guests aged over 2 years.
Disney World says on its website:
“Upon reopening, theme parks, Disney Resort hotels, restaurants, attractions, experiences and other offerings may be modified and will be limited in capacity and subject to limited availability or closure, based on direction from health experts and government officials to promote physical distancing.
Additionally, attractions, experiences (such as shows, parades and fireworks), services and amenities may have limited availability or may remain closed. We will provide more information as it becomes available. We reserve the right to cancel any reservations, admission media or purchases and provide applicable refunds.”
IMAGE: Halloween on Main Street, U.S.A. in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista,Florida. /Photographer: Ali Nasser, photographer
