Developments of Virus H1N1 Influenza
USA-ASSIST and its parent Company Americal LTC, LLC would like all of our policyholders and other travelers to be aware of the recent Virus H1N1 Influenza outbreak in Mexico and elsewhere.
Our clients' health is our primary concern.
The World Health Organization elevated the Pandemic Phase to Level 6 for the novel influenza H1N1 virus, formerly referred to as the Swine Flu. This is the highest level of pandemic phase available, and is characterized by "community level outbreaks in at least one other country in a different WHO region" in addition to "human-to-human spread of the virus into at least two countries in one WHO region."
To date, more than 74 countries have been affected by the H1N1 v irus, resulting in a mortality rate of 0.5%. Most instances of the disease have been mild. Often, hospitalization is not required, and victims experience symptoms similar to seasonal influenza (fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue). The concern over the pandemic stems from the fact that this is a novel virus. That means that it has not previously infected humans or has not infected humans for a long time. Most people will not have an immunity to the virus.
While the seasonal flu often causes severe illness and death in frail and elderly people, the H1N1 virus has caused serious, life threatening pneumonia in young and middle aged people who were previously healthy.
The WHO is also concerned about how the illness will affect countries with limited resources, poor health care systems and other underlying illnesses. The WHO has sent recommendations to health departments worldwide.
The WHO recognizes the desire to try to contain the virus by using such methods as border patrols and airport screenings, but advises that such efforts may not be effective. Instead, the WHO recommends that sick individuals avoid traveling and that all people take regular precautions to limit their self-exposure to the disease.
There are reports of travelers being quarantined, not just for exhibiting symptoms, but for sitting near a person exhibiting symptoms on an airplane. This has primarily occurred in China and Southeast Asia, with quarantine periods lasting up to seven days.
Dosages of vaccines and anti-viral medications, including Tamiflu, are currently being controlled by national governments. They are being reserved for people who are displaying signs and symptoms of the viral infection or those who carry high risk for contraction of the H1N1 virus.
If you are traveling and experiencing flu-like symptoms, our Policy Administrator Seven Corners Assist will be sure to coordinate your care locally and in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and regulatory statute surrounding the influenza virus.
Please do not hesitate to contact our Administrator at 800.690.6295 if you feel the need to seek medical care.
For additional questions related to your benefits please call us at 877.539.8619
The Virus H1N1 Influenza outbreak underscores the need for products such as Travel Medical Insurance Plans and Trip Cancellation Insurance Plans.
Regarding Coverage
Those actually affected: First, customers currently in Mexico who have fallen ill would be covered under the trip interruption, medical expense and evacuation benefits of your plan up to the limits of the policy and subject to its general terms and conditions. If you are aware of any insured passenger in Mexico with flu-like symptoms or any who has been admitted to the hospital, please make sure to contact Seven Corners Assist, (24 Hour Medical Emergency Assistance provider).
Those contemplating cancellation: Insured customers that are considering cancellation or have canceled arrangements due to the travel restrictions, warnings or general fear of traveling, whether to Mexico or elsewhere, are not eligible for cash reimbursement under the provisions of the plan. Only policy wording will apply. Please read your Certificate.
Quarantine: Note that there is quarantine coverage under the policy for Trip Cancellation/Interruption and Trip Delay coverage in the event your doctor quarantines you (for any illness) which prevents you from traveling. Just to clarify – quarantine means that the person is restricted to his,her home or a medical facility – not restricted from one country or destination.
What you can do to stay healthy
Reprinted from http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu
There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.