A TOURISM leisure events provider says he is concerned about the safety of his staff members because most of his clients are Chinese nationals.
“Our staff have direct contact with a lot of Chinese tourists and they specifically like to go on our excursions,” said Nadi businessman Stephen Mallerich.
He made the comment in relation to concerns caused by the outbreak of novel coronavirus in Wuhan City, China.
The virus has claimed 41 lives so far and affected more than 640 people in China alone.
“The staff on our vessels are in close proximity with all of the guests and they handle food and beverages and utensils that our guests use — plates, cups, forks and spoons.
“They are on the boat with them for almost three hours and then on the island with them doing snorkelling and in very close contact.”
Mr Mallerich said apart from concerns about his employees, he was also concerned about the exposure of locals involved in the tourism industry to the deadly virus.
