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The swine flu outbreak has affected a huge amount of holidaymakers across the globe. Indeed, having officially reached pandemic status, the virus has meant that many individuals have had to cancel holiday plans, return home early from their trips or are simply being turned away from the airports. That’s why it’s essential, if you’re planning to go abroad, to secure an appropriate travel insurance policy.

Swine flu is being treated by insurers in the same way that any other illness is. Therefore, if you’ve booked your holiday but are unable to go because you have contracted the virus, it is possible to recover the cancellation costs. However, you should ensure that you follow the correct procedures to avoid falling foul of your insurer’s terms and conditions.

According to the insurance experts, the most important thing you need to do is take out a travel insurance policy that includes cancellation or curtailment costs and one that doesn’t have a pandemic exclusion. Consequently, it is vital to thoroughly read all the policy’s terms and conditions. And, if you have any doubts or further questions, make sure you speak to your insurer.

Your insurance coverage should also state what you’re expected to do in the event that you do contract swine flu. Generally speaking, you must provide a valid medical certificate and/or documentation of any anti-flu drugs administered. If you are turned away at the airport because the airline believes you’re not fit enough to fly, you should also try to get a written confirmation from them. It is important to note here that every insurer is different, and, as a result, it is vital that you understand exactly what you need to do to make a legitimate claim.

Additionally, you will not be insured for swine flu if you take out travel insurance when you already have the virus. In this sense, it can be a good idea to secure a policy as soon as you book your holiday, in order to ensure that your coverage is valid.

As with any trip abroad, it is important to read up on where you’re going and this is no different with swine flu. Companies like the World Health Organisation and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office are great sources of information and provide the most up-to-date travel advice available. Subsequently, before you head off, make sure you are aware of the status of the country in relation to any restrictions or warnings: ignoring such advice, could invalidate any insurance claim you may have to make.

Obtaining an appropriate level of travel insurance whenever you go away is advisable. This is due to the fact that it can protect you financially should something go wrong, like losing your luggage or having personal items stolen. However, it becomes even more essential when there is a pandemic like swine flu around, which could affect your chances of going away and heavily impact upon your finances.

Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.