Insurance warning over SARS
Several insurance companies are warning that they will not provide cover for travellers who catch the SARS virus on trips to Hong Kong, China and Toronto.
As reported, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) last week advised against travel to Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanxi Provice, Guangdong Province, and Toronto; at present Singapore has eluded the advice because it has implemented severe quarantine rules since the start of the outbreak.
A spokesman for Direct Line Insurance reportedly told the BBC: “At the moment we are advising our customers not to travel to these areas. If they do and they contract SARS they will not be covered.” The company confirmed that its policies will still cover lost luggage, cancellation and other medical expenses, and it also offering a refund or the chance to postpone, or people who were heading to infected areas.”
ABTA confirmed that it is normal procedure for insurers to cancel cover on FCO advice, reportedly telling the BBC: “There is a strong feeling in the industry that the WHO will change its advice on Toronto soon. But if it doesn’t we will extend the period for referrals.”
Meanwhile, there appears to be mixed news on the SARS virus; over the weekend UK doctors have warned that the disease could be more serious that previously thought, while others say the disease has already peaked and its spread is slowing down. In addition, the WHO has declared that Vietnam has become the first country to effectively contain the bug; no new cases have been discovered since 8 April.
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