The tourism industry of Turkey may suffer as a result of the bird flu outbreak in the country. The country depends upon revenues from its tourism industry to a very large extent. Both the Government of the UK and that of Russia have advised their citizens not to make tourist visits to Turkey. These two countries account for a large volume of tourists. The outbreak in the country has badly affected the country’s summer tourist season.
The birds in Kusadasi are reported to be affected by the avian influenza, which also happens to be a place which British tourists visit in large numbers. The actual state of affairs of the country’s tourism industry will be known only after 16 January 2006, at the end of the Muslim Feast of the Sacrifice. Istanbul, which is a top historical site has not been spared either, as the poultry in the city are reported to have been infected by the flu.The H5N1 virus has so far affected 14 people in the country, resulting in two casualties. The country’s tourism industry provides employment to 1.5 million people, and accounts for 5.5% of its gross national product. Holidaymakers from Ulster alone seem to be determined not to put off their tourist plans to Turkey, sources from the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) have revealed. This has raised concerns that the disease may find its way to the UK.
