The U.S. Travel Association called on Americans to wear face
coverings and engage in healthy travel practices ahead of the summer’s first
long weekend.
“While Americans move about certain regions of the country,
we are keenly aware of the increase in cases as we head into the Fourth of July
holiday weekend, traditionally a busy period for travel,” U.S. Travel
Association CEO Roger Dow said in a statement. “The travel community strongly
urges visitors and residents alike to wear masks and adhere to all healthy
practices, such as physical distancing, frequent hand washing and remaining
home if sick -- no matter where you may be traveling in the country.”
Dow pointed to a “wealth of information from medical experts”
about the value of mask wearing to prevent the spread of infection.
“Health and safety are paramount to restarting travel and
putting Americans back to work, and our industry’s recovery is contingent on
businesses and travelers alike doing their part to ensure a healthy and safe
travel experience for all along the journey,” he said.
Other travel organizations have also urged travelers to wear
masks. The U.S. Tour Operators Association, Canadian Association of Tour
Operators and European Tourism Association developed joint Covid-19 health and
sanitizing guidelines, along with a TourCare seal of approval showing that
members are compliant.
Vice President Mike Pence on Sunday urged Americans to wear
face masks in additional to other safety protocols such as social distancing. Coronavirus
cases have spiked in the U.S., surpassing 2.5 million confirmed cases.
Members of the Trump administration have routinely not worn
masks even in public settings and while in close proximity at media briefings.