Cancun to Host Global Summit on H1N1 Flu this Wednesday

Cancun has been designated as the host destination for the Global Summit over Lessons Learned from Influenza A (H1N1), to be held July 1 to 3. During a press conference held on June 22, where Minister of Health Jose Cordova made the announcement, the Governor of Quintana Roo, Felix Gonzalez, emphasized the importance of this event for the state as it shows the reestablishment of confidence and trust in the country, specially in this state, where tourism continues to recuperate at a rapid pace.

In addition, Mr. Gonzalez announced the event expects the participation of the general directors from important organizations, such as Margaret Chan from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Mirta Roses of the Pan-American Organization of Health. Likewise, he is counting on the presence of 40 ministers of health from different countries, as well as on the highest level specialists with the ultimate goal to inform the public about everything regarding the H1N1 influenza virus.

“After a month and nine days of having lifted the warning in countries such as United States and Canada, Cancun has 65 percent hotel occupancy, only 10 points below what we consider normal for this season, in comparison to last year, which represents that the state is recovering its tourism activity following the health crisis,” said Gonzalez.

“Mexico’s immediate reaction, taking control of the epidemic in a matter of a month, and acquired knowledge is proof that the world can only benefit from Mexico’s experience,” said Cordova.