Important information on swine influenza & HCF travel insurance
Given the recent outbreak and increase in media attention associated with the spreading
of the swine flu it is important to note the following regarding HCF Travel Insurance
policies.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has increased the influenza pandemic report
from phase 3 (predominantly animal infections, few human infections) to phase 4
(sustained human to human transmission). Full details available on the WHO website.
Policies taken before and on 26 April 2009:
As the pandemic phase had not increased to phase 4 prior to taking the policy, if
travellers proceed with their journey and become infected whilst overseas, coverage
will be extended for their medical costs.
Please note - cancellation costs incurred due to the pandemic are only covered
if the policy holder (or covered party) contracts the disease prior to, or during
the journey.
Disinclination to travel is specifically excluded from the coverage.
Policies taken on or after 27 April 2009:
As the pandemic phase had increased to phase 4 after taking the policy, no coverage
is offered under any section of the policy.
Please note - cancellation of the journey due to the pandemic for policies taken
post 27 April 2009 is specifically not covered due to .
Disinclination to travel is specifically excluded from the coverage.
Suspending policies and delaying travel
In all instances, policyholders can exercise their choice to suspend their policy
for a maximum of 12 months and delay their travel. Any costs associated with these
delays are not covered under the HCF Travel Insurance policy. For further information
please contact HCF on 13 13 34.
Swine Influenza
Friday 1 May 2009
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported an outbreak of Swine Influenza
A (H1N1) in Mexico, North America, Europe and New Zealand that has resulted in a
number of deaths. Subsequently, the Australian government have responded with a
low phase pandemic alert level.
HCF advises you to refer to the
Department of Health and Ageing Website for further information and in the
event that you do have flu symptoms we suggest that you consult your GP. For those
concerned we would like to remind you that many of HCF’s services can be accessed
online and do not require you to access a branch.
General Exclusions
Applicable to all sections of the Policy unless otherwise stated.
We will not pay for any claim under any section of the Policy where
the claim arises from:
25. A pandemic if:
(a) prior to the time that Your Certificate of Insurance is issued, the World Health
Organisation has declared a global phase 4 alert due to a pandemic; and
(b) You visit any country in which there is human to human infection from that pandemic.
