Mimi Hudoyo, Jakarta (2011-01-25)
 
BALI tourism authorities have taken steps to ensure the local tourism industry suffers minimal impact from reports of a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak on the island.

With 11 cases – nine Australian, one Dutch and one French – of the potentially fatal infectious disease detected in tourists returning home from Bali so far, the Bali Hotels Association (BHA) has advised members to conduct immediate tests, increase spot checks at their respective properties, and report findings to the association.

Bali governor Made Mangku Pastika also urged hotels to maintain better standards of hygiene. “The hotels (where the 11 affected tourists stayed) have been summoned and sternly warned,” he said.

Meanwhile, a number of hotels in Kuta – favoured by Australian travellers – said the issue had not yet affected business.

Discovery Kartika Plaza Bali director of sales and marketing Alice Matulessy said bookings for the hotel remain steady. “It is too early to say whether it will affect bookings later,” she added.

Ismullah Lahsin, general manager of White Rose Bali Hotels & Villas and Sun Island Boutique Villas and Spa, said it was not really a big issue among tourists. “I haven’t received any queries about the disease from travel agents or travellers,” said Lahsin.