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Key Information for Travelers Concerned with H1N1

Travel Guard Supplements New H1N1 Guide with Key Information for Travelers Concerned with Virus’ Impact on Winter Travel

Travel Guard is providing consumers with key facts on travel insurance coverage related to H1N1 following the U.S. Department of Health’s recent release of an official response guide designed to educate Americans about the H1N1 virus and seasonal flu precautions. Specifically, Travel Guard is advising travelers to take precautionary measures to minimize H1N1’s potential impact on their winter travel plans.

Travel Guard is supplementing the information featured in the new Department of Health guide titled “H1N1 Flu: A Guide for Community and Faith-Based Organizations” (available at http://flu.gov/professional/community/cfboguidance.html) by advising clients to take appropriate precautions when traveling to areas affected by H1N1, and responding to client questions regarding travel insurance coverage and H1N1 as the winter travel season begins.

Below are commonly asked questions and answers regarding Travel Guard’s retail travel insurance plans and H1N1:

Q: If I were to contract the H1N1 virus, would I be covered for trip cancellation?

A: Most plans provide trip cancellation coverage as long as the plan was purchased before the traveler contracted H1N1, and the traveler selected a plan that includes coverage due to unforeseen illness.

Q: If I were to contract H1N1 on my trip, would I have coverage for medical expenses?

A: Most plans can provide medical coverage as long as the virus was contracted while on the trip. 

Q: Would I have coverage if I am quarantined for health related reasons while traveling? 

A: Yes, some plans can reimburse the insured for additional expenses incurred if the insured is quarantined due to H1N1 or other covered reasons, up to the maximum limits of the coverage.

Q: If I am afraid to travel to a specific area because the H1N1 virus has been detected, will I have coverage for trip cancellation?

A: Like most in the industry, Travel Guard plans do not offer coverage for fear of traveling to a specific region. However, travelers who purchase a Travel Guard plan that includes the “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage option can be covered for up to 75% of trip cost for trip cancellation in this instance.

Q: Would I have coverage for trip cancellation if the government issues a travel warning covering the area I am scheduled to travel to? 

A: Generally, travel insurance plans do not provide trip cancellation coverage due to government warnings.

“Our worldwide travel assistance division continues to monitor developments related to H1N1 and its impact on winter travelers,” said Dan McGinnity, Vice President of Travel Guard. “We encourage travelers to contact us for updates, health warnings, prevention and treatment tips, along with all other information regarding H1N1 and travel.”

SOURCE: Travel Guard