The Zika virus has spread from South America to the Southern United States, but how does this affect your travel insurance?
The Zika virus has caused some understandable panic and concern among travelers hoping to travel to South America. What do we know about the Zika virus? And, will your travel insurance help cover Zika related incidents?
What We Know
The Zika virus only had 14 reported cases before 2015. Of course, we all know how quickly that changed when Brazil noticed that thousands of babies had been born with abnormally small heads and brains. The Zika Virus is unlike most viruses because it can cross the placenta and targets developing brains.
How has the Zika virus spread? The pesky mosquito has caused the most damage in the poorest cities of the world’s richest countries–including the U.S.! Florida has already declared a state of emergency, and there is currently no cure or vaccine to prevent the spread of Zika. Currently, the best way to avoid it is by not being bitten or coming in contact with the disease.
Does Travel Insurance Cover It?
Customers who purchased travel insurance may be qualified for care.
- If the client became ill while travelling, coverage for emergency medical/dental expenses and transportation may be available.
- If normal pregnancy is included as a covered reason, customers who became pregnant after the effective date of their policy are eligible to receive a reimbursement for their trip and nonrefundable travel deposits if they choose to cancel their trip.
- The Cancel Anytime policy allows customers to cancel for any unforeseen reasons and receive reimbursement.
Obtaining the right plan that meets all of your needs doesn’t have to be difficult. Contact the insurance professionals at Donald Weiss Insurance Services to have an expert customize a great travel policy that includes cancellation coverage!