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Swine Flu Health Check warning for Air travellers - Mary Doyle

Published: 23 July, 2009

Sinn Féin Health spokesperson Councillor Mary Doyle hasurged anyone holidaying abroad in the next few weeks to take out medical insurance and if travelling in Europe to take their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Cllr Doyle's call comes amid moves by several leading airlines to prevent suspected swine flu victims from flying and news that some airports have introduced medical screening for the swine flu virus for passengers arriving on international flights

Councillor Doyle said,

"The issue of Swine Flu is in the news headlines daily and the story is changing sometimes on an hourly basis .Over the weekend the latest reports was that several leading airlines including BA and Virgin Atlantic will prevent suspected swine flu victims from flying and that some airports have introduced medical screening for the swine flu virus for passengers arriving on international flights.

"I would urge anyone travelling abroad in the next few weeks to make sure they are fully covered with medical insurance and that it covers the cost of the holiday in the event that they may get the illness . For the sake of the extra twenty or thirty pounds on top of the holiday budget its well worth it for peace of mind. Anyone travelling to Europe should also take their European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) with them

"With medical costs rising for anyone travelling abroad, travel insurance has never been more important. Any accident or illness while overseas can leave you with a serious financial burden unless you go fully prepared. While people may consider themselves to be in good health there are always unexpected accidents waiting to happen. So it's much better to be safe than sorry.