There has been a surge in the number of Brits concerned about whether the ‘monkeypox’ virus could impact their upcoming holidays, says travel insurance provider Holidaysafe.
Consumers are becoming increasingly worried over the impact the monkeypox virus could have on an upcoming trip abroad.
With interest on how the monkeypox virus may affect overseas travel up by 93%* and a spike in the number of insurance-related inquiries on the matter, Brits are actively seeking confirmation on where they stand should their holiday plans be ruined.
Currently, the UK Health Security Agency advice recommends that anyone who has had direct or household contact with a confirmed monkeypox case should isolate for 21 days. Contacts are advised to provide their details for contact tracing, forgo travel, and avoid contact with immunosuppressed people, pregnant women, and children under 12.
Travel insurance provider, Holidaysafe, has confirmed that the wide range of cover included in their policies would include protection against cancellation and curtailment if individuals fall seriously ill with monkeypox and are unable to travel or be legally required to isolate, provided the matter can be certified by a medical practitioner.
It comes as no surprise that travellers are taking a more cautious approach when it comes to their holidays and travel insurance protection, given that many were caught out by Covid-19 by not having the right cover in place.
Sarah Page, brand manager at Holidaysafe, said: “We’re seeing travellers taking interest in their cover and actively making sure their policies match their holiday needs. While this is a good thing, it’s important we offer them the cover they need. The pandemic has given us a lot of insight into dealing with the unexpected and we are ready to react accordingly.
“Right now, there is only a handful of confirmed monkeypox cases here in the UK.
“While we hope the number of cases stays limited, our team remains committed to monitoring the case rates. And, if necessary, will aim to adjust our policies to be aligned with the government’s guidance to make sure we continue to match our cover to what customers need.”
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