RBC Insurance Advises Travellers: Don't Let the Flu Ground Your Travel Plans
Toronto, November 8 2011— As we head into the busiest time of the year for travel, RBC Insurance offers important advice to Canadians planning to travel during flu season.
"The risk of catching the flu increases between the months of October through April and can result in an unexpected change in travel plans," said Martha Turnbull, head, Travel Claims, RBC Insurance. "That's why Canadians should take the time to better understand their travel insurance coverage so the flu doesn't delay or cancel their trip altogether."
A recent RBC Insurance survey found that only 51 per cent of Canadians understand what their travel insurance covers before they leave on a trip.
Martha Turnbull, also a registered nurse, is available for interviews to discuss various travel health considerations before and during travel such as:
Immunizations
- Make sure all of your immunizations are up-to-date.
- Determine what immunizations are required for countries that you are visiting.
- Don't put off getting any immunizations - some require more than one dose and others may take time to become fully effective.
If you're feeling sick before you go
- Consult your doctor or health care professional to ensure that your travel plans don't present a health risk.
- Contact your insurer to determine if you would be covered during your trip if your condition gets worse.
- Ensure sufficient health care is available when travelling to remote destinations.
- Bring recent medical reports or summaries in case of a medical emergency.
- Packing prescription medications should be another consideration.
Protecting yourself while away
- Wash your hands thoroughly and often, using hand sanitizer as needed.
- Keep hands away from your face to reduce risk of contact with viruses and bacteria.
- Eat only foods that have been thoroughly cooked and avoid foods that have been sitting out for long periods of time.
- Drink bottled beverages, especially water.
- Avoid ice if you are not sure it's made from purified water.
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For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Margie McNeil, RBC Corporate Communications, 905.606.1425
margie.mcneil@rbc.com
Angela Gordon, RBC Corporate Communications, 905 816-5650
angela.gordon@rbc.com
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