“So yes, I have a concern that we will experience a decline [in tourism] for a period of time, but what history shows us is that it resolves itself.”

NEWPORT — When it comes to travel, people should “keep calm and carry on,” a leading local tourism official says.

Discover Newport President and CEO Evan Smith quoted Winston Churchill as he discussed tourism amid fears of the coronavirus.

While keeping medical alerts and advisories in mind, “I think that people carrying on and leading their lives are the best thing we can do to support the economy. It's going to affect every aspect of the American and international economy,” Smith said. “People should continue to travel but be intelligent, smart and mindful.”

“We have been here before. We’ve seen other public infections come and go in my 30-plus years here. We’ve had Ebola, SARS and other things, and seen the impact they have,” Smith said. “So yes, I have a concern that we will experience a decline [in tourism] for a period of time, but what history shows us is that it resolves itself.”

That said, Smith noted that people are questioning whether to plan events and book meetings.

“We believe that meetings and events should go on, assuming they're not in conflict with the best medical advice,” Smith said citing a manifesto signed by eight leading worldwide travel organizations, including the U.S. Travel Association, Meeting Professionals International, International Association of Exhibitions and Events and others.

Smith broke down the concerns he had on both kinds of travel — business and leisure.

Newport relies heavily on tourism during the summer months. However, the city manager said, at this point it’s hard to say how or if the season will be affected.

“I think it’s too soon to know what effect — if any — the coronavirus will have on the city, but we’re certainly monitoring developments closely and will be prepared to respond if necessary,” City Manager Joe Nicholson said. “More broadly, I think we’re all hopeful that the situation resolves itself sooner rather than later, but at this point the most important thing we can do as a community is to simply be prepared, stay informed and be mindful of germs — just as we would during any flu or cold season.”

The Preservation Society of Newport County had a similar sentiment and is following the guidance of the CDC and proceeding accordingly.

“The Preservation Society of Newport County is watching the daily developments closely and has implemented CDC-recommended strategies to maintain visitor and staff confidence in our houses,” reads a statement from The Preservation Society. “We are grateful that attendance at the mansions has been well above last year all winter long and has remained so through March 2, the latest day for complete figures. As events unfold we will continue to act on the guidance provided by public health authorities.”

rthatcher@newportri.com