June 2009 - Swine Flu

Swine Flu

On 11th June 2009, The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the spread of Swine Flu as a global pandemic after the virus was confirmed in at least two regions of the world.

Speaking to reporters, Dr Margaret Chan, director-general of the WHO said, "As of today, nearly 30,000 confirmed cases have been reported in 74 countries.

"The world is now at the start of the 2009 influenza pandemic."

As the outbreak of swine flu continues to cause concern for thousands of holidaymakers, The Association of British Insurers (ABI) recommends anyone about to travel overseas should contact their tour operator or airline to find out how the swine flu pandemic may, or may not, impact their plans.

In addition, WTO and the Foreign Office provide up-to-date travel advice on specific countries. Holidaymakers should consult this travel advice for the country they plan to visit. If they continue with their travel plans to areas affected by Swine Flu against official advice and fall ill, their insurance policy may not cover them.

Nick Starling, director of general insurance and health at the ABI, says most travel insurance policies will cover people forced to change their holiday plans.

"Travel insurance will normally cover the cost of cancelling a trip for a number of specified reasons, including illness, and redundancy," he explains. "If the government advises against travelling to a particular country or region, check your travel policy, as some may cover cancellation costs in these circumstances, although policies vary."

As Travel Insurance policy terms and conditions vary, it is always good practice for travellers who are now planning trips abroad to make sure they are arranging the cover they need and resist the temptation perhaps to focus solely on price.