The top 10 travel insurance claims revealed

Derbyshire health experts have revealed that top 10 travel insurance claims from food poisoning to cancelling a holiday due to sickness.

16:57 20 August 2014

Derbyshire health experts, in their bid to show how vital travel insurance can be, have revealed the top 10 travel insurance claims.  Food poisoning, mosquito bites, and cancelling a holiday due to sickness all featured on their list.

Dr Avi Bhatia, chairman of NHS Erewash Clinical Commissioning Group responsible for healthcare in Ilkeston, Long Eaton and the surrounding areas – said: "Nothing will ruin your trip faster than falling sick or having an accident.

"So, although packing a first-aid kit with a few invaluable basics might seem low down on your to-do list, make it a priority, as medical mishaps can and will happen when you travel abroad.

"These should include painkillers, anti-diarrhoea tablets, antihistamines, antiseptic cream, hand wash, plasters and dressings."

Dr Bhatia also urged people to think about vaccinations against life-threatening diseases. He said: "Almost one in four UK holidaymakers don't have jabs against life-threatening infectious diseases – despite travelling to areas where serious diseases such as malaria and yellow fever are commonplace.

"So we are asking people to talk to their GP or health centre to find out the most up-to-date information about the vaccines you need."

The top 10 travel insurance claims are:

1. Cancellation due to ill health;
2. Insect and mosquito bites;
3. Gastroenteritis or food poisoning; ear infections from hotel pools;
4. Sunburn and heat stroke;
5. Lost or broken glasses;
6. Lost or damaged luggage by an airline;
7. Loss of cash or loss of passport;
8. Delayed departure at airport due to strike;
9. Medical expenses as a result of injuries sustained by moped hire;
10. Assault or broken pavements.