Cancellation of travel plans due to swine flu may not be covered by travel insurance. The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) is advising holidaymakers to check their travel insurance policies as it has been reported that some insurance carriers are introducing exemptions for swine flu illness.

The UK has the third highest number of swine flu cases in the world with approximately 9,700 confirmed cases. That number is growing daily. Mexico, where the disease was first identified is second with more than 10,000 cases. The US has the highest incidence of the bug with almost 34,000 confirmed cases.

The ABTA is concerned about whether or not travel insurance policies will cover cancellations due to swine flu illness.

ABTA spokesperson Frances Tuke said “We have had calls about this with regard to insurance – apparently some insurers are placing exemptions on policies. If you need to cancel because of swine flu you need to check your travel insurance policy to ensure it is covered.”

So far, tour operators have not reported any increase in holiday cancellations but the ABTA is monitoring the situation. They are advising travelers who think that they may be coming down with the bug to consult with a doctor prior to attempting travel.

Some international airports have high-tech cameras that can detect passengers with high temperatures.

The good news according to ABTA is that for most of the population swine flu symptoms are actually quite mild and travel would not be prohibitive.

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