World
Hantavirus Alert: Are flights getting banned now? Know why you need travel insurance before your trip
As the world continues to deal with multiple global challenges, rising cases of Hantavirus have started creating fresh concern in several countries. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation as new infections continue to emerge. Although experts say the virus is unlikely to spread like COVID 19, the growing fear around the outbreak has once again highlighted the importance of staying prepared while travelling. In such uncertain situations, travel insurance becomes extremely important. From medical emergencies and trip cancellations to sudden travel restrictions, a proper insurance policy can help travellers avoid major financial losses.
No international flight bans announced yet
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Concerns over Hantavirus are increasing globally, but so far no country has issued any major restrictions on international air travel. Flight services to destinations such as Cape Verde, Canary Islands, and South Africa are operating normally. Airports have also not introduced any additional screening measures or entry restrictions for regular passengers.
Health agencies have warned travellers
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Health authorities have advised people to remain cautious if they have recently returned from hantavirus affected areas such as Argentina or Chile, especially regions linked to the Andes hantavirus strain. Travellers who were onboard the MV Hondius cruise have also been asked to monitor their health for up to 45 days, which is considered the maximum incubation period of the virus.
Some passengers asked To self isolate
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According to health agencies, some passengers and crew members from the affected cruise ship have been advised to self isolate after returning to their home countries. Authorities are also tracing passengers from selected flights, including KLM flight KL592, which departed from Johannesburg on April 25.
Safety measures travellers should follow
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Health agencies have advised travellers to take basic precautions to reduce the risk of infection. People should check official travel advisories and the World Health Organization website before travelling. During flights, travellers are advised to maintain hand hygiene, cover their mouth while coughing or sneezing, and use masks if necessary. People experiencing symptoms such as fever, extreme fatigue, muscle pain, or breathing difficulties should not ignore them. Instead of directly visiting hospitals, they are advised to contact health authorities first so that proper arrangements can be made.
Why travel insurance is important?
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As no official travel ban has been announced yet, most airlines are currently not offering free ticket cancellation or rebooking facilities. Experts suggest that travellers planning trips should carefully check whether their travel insurance policy includes “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage or protection against health emergencies before booking tickets.
