ABTA releases swine flu advice

The Association of British Travel Agents has reiterated the message that it is essential for travellers heading abroad this year to book travel insurance.

Advice on the symptoms of swine flu and medical guidelines are available at the Department of Health website, while the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website provides up-to-date information and medical precautions to take both before, and during, travel.

Mark Tanzer, ABTA chief executive, said: "Holidays are very important to our overall well-being, so for those of us who are due to travel on well-earned breaks over the next few weeks, it is good news that the official advice is to 'enjoy' them.

"We all need to play our part when it comes to trying to reduce the spread of infection, and ABTA members will continue to advise their customers with the best possible advice so that they can enjoy their holidays to the full."

ABTA is offering three key points to remember:
• Take out travel insurance at the time of booking, or book as soon as possible
• If you think that you or your family may have contracted swine flu within a week before travel, check with the NHS or your GP
• If you need to cancel your holiday, inform your travel company and insurance provider and follow their advice.

Any cancellation charges incurred due to contracting swine flu will be claimable from your insurance company, as will any medical expenses incurred should you contract swine flu while on holiday. However, if you travel with any clear symptoms you may well be refused boarding by your airline and have any claims for medical expenses abroad rejected.

Don't forget to book comprehensive travel insurance with Holiday Extras, available from as little as £10 per person.

July 21, 2009