Source: Xinhua
04-30-2009 10:25
Special Report: Tech MaxBEIJING, April 29 (Xinhua) -- The swine flu epidemic took a tighter grip on the world economy Tuesday as Cuba issued the first travel ban to Mexico and several other countries banned imports of Mexican and some North American pork.
Following warnings from a number of governments against travel to Mexico, Cuba on Tuesday suspended all flights to and from its neighbor for 48 hours, becoming the first country to impose a travel ban to the epicenter of the epidemic.
Argentina also suspended flights from Mexico for five days as travelers from around the world canceled or postponed trips to the country. Other nations, meanwhile, intensified surveillance at their borders against the new virus that is suspected in 159 deaths across Mexico.
Many airlines issued polices waiving usual penalties for changing reservations for anyone traveling to, from, or through Mexico. Travel agencies across Asia and Europe have canceled tours to the country.
Airlines and cruise lines saw their stocks plunge Monday as investors sold their shares ahead of an anticipated drop in traffic.
Observers said the epidemic could have a multifaceted impact on the global economy, not only in tourism and transportation but also food and other supporting sectors.
Nine countries, including Russia, the Philippines and Thailand, have banned pork imports from Mexico and parts of the U.S. despite assurances that the disease is not spread through meat.
