Disney theme parks around the world have been closed throughout the current health crisis, and there are a lot of questions about what policies and procedures may be put into place once they reopen.
One of the biggest concerns Disney has right now is figuring out how to safely get guests and Cast Members back into the parks. We’re certain Disney won’t re-open the parks until they come up with the best possible solution. But in order to keep everyone safe while in their care, there are probably going to have to be some BIG changes. One of those changes might be a mandatory health screening.
Bob Iger, former CEO and current Chief Executive of the Walt Disney Company, has recently stated Disney Parks are exploring the possibility of requiring health screenings to enter the domestic parks; and Disney has already implemented a health screening process in Shanghai, the first Disney park to slowly reopen in phases to the public.
While the Walt Disney Company has not confirmed that health screenings will be used when the domestic Disney Parks reopen, the company has lots of choices for how to implement them should they decide to do so. Today, we’re looking at a few of their potential options based on what’s happening worldwide.
What Are Health Screenings?
When Disneytown, Wishing Star Park, and Shanghai Disneyland Hotel reopened last month, guests had to pass through an initial temperature screening. Recently, the guidelines have become even stricter, requiring guests to have a green-colored nationally issued QR health code to enter (more on that in a bit!).
With Disney’s former CEO stating that we need to prepare for “a world where our customers demand that we scrutinize everybody,” this could be our new norm. But what exactly does that mean?
Click here to see Bob Iger’s remarks on temperature screening in the U.S. parks
Just like going through a security gate (like you’re already used to doing when you enter the parks), it’s possible now that you might be checked for signs of illness when the Disney parks reopen.
You could be screened for physical symptoms such as coughing or sneezing, but Disney will most likely need something more concrete to assure the safety of its guests and Cast Members. We’ve already found many of our readers have concerns with having their temperatures checked, due to the possibility of inaccuracies, false readings, and a scammed system. So what other options are out there?
What Are Potential Health Screening Options?
Let’s examine how some airports, businesses, and governments are currently conducting health screenings to get some context for what options Disney might implement.
Interview or Questionnaire
Disney could require a “Declaration of Health” to enter the parks. This could be as informal as being asked a series of “yes” or “no” questions such as “Do you have a fever? Shortness of breath? A headache?” or “Have you been in contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 recently?” It could be verbal or it could also be a survey that you would need to fill out ahead of time.
You may have encountered this type of health screening at your doctor’s office during the recent Ebola outbreak a few years ago. If they asked you whether you’d been to an Ebola-affected country in the last month, that was an “interview” type health screening.
Based on your responses, you could be permitted to enter, or you could be turned away. This process would most likely need to be repeated each time you planned to enter the parks. Many businesses including hospitals and airlines have been using this type of screening to monitor employee health during this crisis.
This option of screening would require participation from each individual and it would also require honesty — something Disney would have to take into consideration if they choose to go this route. Would people tell the truth about their symptoms or exposure if it means not being allowed inside the parks? It’s definitely something that Disney would have to carefully consider.
Temperature Screening
One of the new protocols that Bob Iger has already alluded to is temperature readings. In fact, we saw Disney implement this procedure briefly before the Disney Cruise Line shut down and again when Shanghai Disneyland began to re-open.
But while this option could help identify sick individuals before they enter the parks, there are concerns that there could be too many variables resulting in false readings.
When we asked our readers what they thought of temperature checks, some worried about having naturally higher body temperatures while others thought the Florida or California heat might give an inaccurate reading.
Additionally, readers were concerned that truly sick guests could trick the system by using ice packs or fever reducers to temporarily lower their temperature to enter the parks. Disney World is a costly vacation and that kind of cash outlay can mess with good judgment. It’s going to be tough for some guests to miss out on that once-in-a-lifetime trip if they’re ill. It’s understandable to be concerned that some guests would potentially “do what they need to do” to get in, with little regard for what it could mean for other guests’ safety.
We asked our readers if they would be okay with temperature checks to enter Disney World. Here’s what they said!
Rapid Testing
Rapid testing for this virus is one of the most costly options being worked on and it’s still only in the early stages of development. The advantage here is that this kind of testing takes mere minutes to obtain results instead of hours or days.
These tests don’t need to be sent away to a lab and can be performed right on the spot. There are many, many types of rapid tests being privately developed, as reported by Live Science; but all of them require some form of genetic material to test for COVID-19. Some are swab-and-wait, while others require a small blood sample.
The swab version takes a sample from the nose or the far back of the throat. While this sounds MUCH more appealing than giving a blood sample, we imagine the process isn’t very comfortable — think of it like being swabbed for strep throat or the flu.
Meanwhile, CNN has stated that Dubai-based airline Emirates has begun exploring a version of rapid testing on passengers which can yield results in as little as 10 minutes.
This version does require a blood sample (a small finger prick) and can determine if individuals have been exposed to the virus by detecting antibodies in their blood. This would not necessarily catch individuals in the first days of exposure before antibodies have been developed.
For something like this to work, Disney would need a much larger testing capacity than what is currently available. According to CNBC, there are currently only 120,000 samples being tested each day in the United States — and that’s just the regular test (meaning it takes a couple of days for results from a lab). USA Today reports Disney World alone saw over 21.8 million visitors in 2018. So unless enormous strides are made, it’s rather unlikely Disney would be capable of most forms of large-scale testing. We can also only imagine how many guests might object to providing a genetic sample due to privacy concerns (and I haven’t met many kids who are totes cool with having their finger “poked”).
Requiring Vaccines
There is currently no cure or vaccine for COVID-19, but there are many prospects currently in development. Bloomberg recently reported there might be a mass-produced vaccine as early as September. While certain jobs, travel abroad, and school registration can require proof of immunization for some diseases, it’s unknown where Disney will fall on this rather touchy subject.
While it’s a possibility Disney could ask guests to show proof of vaccination, it would not be without controversy. Disney has never required any form of immunization to enter any of their parks. There has never been a precedent like this before to know just how guests might react.
Health QR Codes
China is further along in this health crisis than we are in the United States, and they have already begun the lengthy process of re-opening places of work, school, and business. As Chinese citizens have begun returning to “normal life”, many citizens have begun using an app on their smartphones which gives them a designated Health QR code.
After filling out a quick survey, the software assigns them a green, yellow, or red Health QR code, which is scanned at different “health checkpoints” each time a person enters a public area or uses mass transit.
Using the app is completely voluntary, but the New York Times is reporting that it’s nearly impossible to move about freely without it. Since recently upping its health screening protocols, Shanghai Disneyland is requiring a green Heath QR code for entry inside its open venues.
Some Chinese citizens have dissenting opinions about the government using this app to learn their personal information and “track” their movements, and Americans might feel the same. Again, this one doesn’t sound super-likely to happen here, but it’s obviously a health screening option since Disney is requiring it in Shanghai.
Contact Tracing Through Bluetooth
Along similar lines to Health QR codes, Apple and Google are working together on a new tool that can be used to slow the spread of the virus through contact tracing. This technology will be able to follow a person’s movements through their Bluetooth-enabled devices to know their location. If they’ve come into close-proximity with potential exposure to the virus, they could be notified.
This tech certainly isn’t without its privacy concerns. But until quick, widespread, and (hopefully) free testing is available, it might be one of the better recourses out there to accomplish one of the main tenants of containment — tracing and notification of those who may have come into contact with the virus.
How Will Health Checks Affect Guests?
While regular and thoroughly performed health checks will definitely make some guests feel safer, some people will not take kindly to what they could see as an invasion of their privacy. People who don’t want to share their personal information openly might avoid going to the parks while health checks are being enforced.
It’s also likely Disney will lose some of its efficiency by performing health checks. Many of the options we just explored will take some time to set up and perform, which means we might see longer wait times to enter the parks.
Remember, none of these options has been announced by Disney World representatives. We know that Bob Iger has referenced temperature checks (and Disney Cruise Line implemented temperature checks on cruises before the cruise line shut down in March); and we know that Shanghai Disneyland is currently using temperature checks and QR Code screening. But Disney World has not yet confirmed the use of health screenings when the parks reopen.
That said, Disney has a lot of pros and cons to weigh with each of these possible options and now you have at least some idea of what we might expect in terms of health screenings should they be implemented. We’ll continue to monitor all official statements released by Disney as soon as they provide any additional information.
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Would you prefer to see Disney implement health screenings, or not? Let us know in the comments below.
DebC says
Disney has no right to my health information. None. I don’t work for them.
Jazzyjen508 says
Personally I think when it comes to health and security we do need to give up a little privacy for the greater good of the world as a whole, I personally think anything involving the honor system is a bad idea because people would lie to get past it. Until there is a vaccine/treatment people need to accept some type of screening on the health front. I get being upset if you or someone in your party is sick and that’s why Disney should have some type of recovery available for people in that situation so they would be more honest.
LINDA RUFFINI says
As a healthcare professional, I would not use a code or test that requires honesty. I would also not use something specific to the Corona Virus, as this will not protect you from other things that could kill you. You can take my vital signs at any given time and get a wide range of normal. You would need someone with expertise to look at vitals and symptoms together. Having a headache can be normal everyday stress or just the fact that you have not eaten yet. So that symptom alone is meaningless. Sneezing if Florida usually means something is in bloom that you are allergic to, and not contagious. So no matter what you choose, it won.t be perfect. You will miss people who are asymptomatic, and restrict people who would be fine in the parks and not contageous.
Jason C says
I work in Healthcare in NYC so as expected I am now self isolating with the virus, almost fully recovered. I wouldn’t considering myself an expert by any means, but I can tell you one thing, while I experienced almost every symptom (other than shortness of breath), I never had run a temperature of 99 or higher, so temperature checks seem like more and more of a waste of time. Sadly an honor system is the only way to go, but we need to have a more forgiving society. If someone is sick, let them stay home from work, give them a refund for whatever event they were planning on attending, help them get the medical attention they need. An honest approach and more forgiving society is what we need to start opening things back up. Good luck and stay safe everyone.
James says
Going to disney is an expensive TREAT. To everyone here complaining, just don’t go! You won’t die!
I’m against all these health checks and tracings, it’s insane. But we can live without Disney for a year or two or even forever if need be.
Relax people, let Disney check what they want, and those who don’t like it, like me and my family, just won’t go. Life goes on!
Lyle O says
I have no issue with health screenings from Disney whatsoever. I love going to the parks and I have been going for almost 50 years now. When I am sick I do not want to be in a theme park. I want to be home in bed, so this is really a non-issue for me. No one is required to go to Walt Disney World. It is not a law or a commandment. The idea of having less people in the parks because some want to protect their privacy is magnificent. I have no problem sharing my health information with Disney. They know pretty much everything about me at this point anyway, LOL. Bottom line is this, I don’t care about giving up privacy if it makes myself and my family a little safer.
Tom Monto says
We are already being checked at airports, bag checks at park entrance etc. magic bands show where you are and have been. When you go to these places (ie Disney), you expect them to keep you safe. Having my health status checked is just another way they keep me safe in this case from COVIN-19
M says
Temperature checks and health screenings are the equivalent of medical security theater. If I have to wear a mask or be subjected to invasive health screenings, that takes away the magic that will be sorely needed. As a disappointing as not going will be, I will not travel to WDW.
Lori says
I will not go if I have to wear a face mask. I will not allow myself to be “traced.” Suggested methods are too prone to errors and exceptions that render them useless. In addition, the speculated picture being painted of the changes inside the parks will not be what we have come to know and love. We will not attend until Disney can once again be that magical bubble.
Erin says
It will be interestsing to see what happens. If you don’t like whatever they set up, don’t go. That’s your choice. I think questionnaires or just an “honor system” are a waste from the beginning. If someone gets all the way to the gate without wavering, they aren’t going to be honest. Honestly, I am fine with whatever they end up doing, and if I decide it is worth the risk at some point, I will go along with anything. I think temperature checks should be a given, as they are so simple.
I’d be ok with some sort of testing, once it becomes easier, but I don’t think testing everyone right at the gate is the best plan. Maybe there could be centers scattered throughout the property, with the largest ones being at the transportation hub and Disney Springs, where you could go and have your status attached to your ticket, with rechecks required every X number of days. Perhaps the COVID-19 test is free, and optionally you can pay a nominal fee to take an antibody test (if there is a quick one, and enough information becomes available to show the level of antibodies that confer protection) that would mean you don’t require any more testing for the length of your stay. Or Disney could create guidelines and partner with a reliable national service that would allow you to do antibody testing before you even leave for your trip. I guess that would be along the lines of the QR code in China, where you are certified and don’t have to go through quite so much screening. Like quick entry at the airport or border.
Erin says
Oh, yeah… But I don’t think just screening for coughs and sneezes are effective, because of allergies or even just lingering coughs and chronic respiratory conditions. I still have a cough two months after getting sick (right after getting home from Disney World, for the record; that is where we all caught something). I’ve always been a person who held onto coughs for months, and I’m sure I’m not the only one.
I would also expect to be buying adorable Disney masks that match your newest ears and spirit jerseys. Profits + safety = win. The trickiest thing with all of this is that you have to use your fingerprint for entry at Disney World, and your face at Disneyland. Sanitizing and removing masks both take time, and expecting everyone to wash their hands right after entering the park creates another crazy situation. Those fingerprint tracers will be one of the filthiest things at Disney.
Beth says
Whatever Disney decides to do to screen guests should be done to each cast member every day before work. Whatever Disney decides to implement won’t matter unless the cast members also follow the rules and abide by the rules. As I have been off work for a while, I have seen many cast members not wearing masks, out with friends (non relatives), and visiting friends, even in the past week. When brought to their attention, they felt the restrictions in our area were a little excessive and unnecessary as they felt fine. If the cast members can’t treat this as serious, how is making the guests go through screenings going to make a difference?
Eileen says
Giving up freedom for security gets you neither. We need to go back to our founding fathers belief in isolationism. If we had done that China could not have infected the whole world. We should not have to give up our private health information.
Lily says
Safety in the parks is only one thing for Disney to address. How about the transportation to the parks? How many times do you take a Disney bus or get on the monorail and it’s crammed to the max with guests? People are sitting, standing, all pressed against each other….
Having a health check at the park entrance is already too late.
Kathleen Fisch says
My family was planning a trip to Disneyworld in November 2020. If it means wearing faces masks and getting swabbed or blood work to get in, no thank you. This is meant to be a fun vacation. While I understand they need to take precautions, if this is required, a new destination will be our choice
Michael says
I would like to take a minute to Thank ALL of the health care workers who left statements above for what they are doing all over the world for their service and and for those lost. I have recently retired from 26 years in law enforcement in Buffalo, NY. My question is who will administer these tests a Disney College student from another country here in NY when we draw blood from someone it has to be someone (Qualified) to draw it. Also will they set up an area with nobody is around you to tell reason you will be denied so their right to medical privacy would not be violated. Let’s not forget the HIPAA Laws. I don’t think that Bob Iger or Disney can get around them. This Is Not China this is the United States Of America.
A O M says
Health screening, throat swabs, Finger Pricks……..SERIOUSLY!!!
Attendance will be driven so far down, Disney will go Bankrupt, which might not be such a bad thing! I don’t think there outlook is very promising, as there business model relied on maximum guest capacity, and heavy profit……are they willing to see long term reductions of 50% or greater?
Anthony says
I am not a doctor or work as a health professional. I do believe I can offer up some sound advise. Stay Home. Stay inside. Not just now. Not until a vaccine is made available or not. Just check previous outbreaks, or virus that still do not have a vaccine. So, if you are banking on that in, say, about 18 months. Vegas is not open and I’m sure if they were, they would not be taking bets on that one.
Again, please stay home. Stay inside. Do not venture out. Do not visit or have anyone visit, unless it is done through social media or phone conversations. Not just for the present, but future as well. Do what is correct for you and your family.
I am a person who is in the age group and health group that is more susceptible to COVID-19. I have a job that is consider “Essential” (Whatever that means), that brings me out into the public. I would like to think all jobs are “Essential”. I have family members who own their business in the travel industry. And I have friends less fortunate then I, who can not work at this time because of State Mandates. Can someone tell me how that is not killing them.
I have stated in previous post. I look forward to visiting WDW again. I have already changed our plans once, from early May to the end of August. If things are still currently the same. Then I will reschedule again. In whatever form, incarnation/iteration that may be.
Some previous post, stated going to WDW is not important. In the scheme of life, I agree. Venturing outdoors. Going to the beach. The simple things, for a simple person. Yeah, I’ll take that as living. Someone telling me I must live the rest of my life in fear. Well, lets just say, “That will not happen”.
“A life lived in fear is a life half lived.” – Henry David Thoreau
joe says
I think Disney should restrict this year to individuals who have reservations at the resorts. Individuals can be tested prior to entrance to Disney Properties and if tested negative they must stay within Disney properties for the length of their stay. Also each day Cast Members should be tested. Furthermore seasonholders should be tested each day prior to entrance. Therefore if all persons on Disney property are negative than WDW can stay a magical place and the crowd will have a magical experience. Less people but will have a great vacation or day. Otherwise, will other screenings, social distances, limited rides, meals -all that will present vacationers with spending a lot of money for a magical less experience. So at least some will enjoy. I think I read that resorts would have over 30,000 persons.
gloria says
Screening and/or testing simply will not entice me to go even though I live in Florida and have a season pass. I will have to wait for the vaccine as this is the only way that I can protect myself and my family members. Relying on others and other methods will not work for me.
Gencha says
@ Joe, I agree with you somewhat as far as testing prior to the park entry. As mentioned, the buses are crowded and the monorails also, mostly to full capacity. The resort guests could possibly get checked prior to boarding any transportation which would cut down on lines at the Park, but would also require different entry points. I would not subject my family and young children to blood tests. Breaking the skin for a blood test leaves one open to infection from other sources, and people do faint from blood tests. I don’t know how they are going to keep everyone safe. Good luck with that. But having to endure a medical examination for a day in the Park is no walk I will be taking until all this settles. I love Disney just as much as anyone but this is one huge problem right now for the world.
Nicholas Starling says
I caught influenza at Disney in 2017 (April). I would be more than happy to be vaccinated before entering Disney and would be very keen to have a passport linked to this data. My view is that if I don’t want Disney to have my data, I am not obliged to visit. But if it means the parks are safe, its a small price to pay.