Are you booked to travel to an area affected by the Zika Virus?
Many of you have probably seen stories about the spread of the Zika virus in Central and South America. While the disease itself seems to be relatively mild, the ramifications for pregnant women are potentially more complicated.
On January 28th, 2016 the World Health Organization warned that the spread of the Zika virus has escalated in the Americas. Since last spring, more than 20 countries have reported locally acquired cases of Zika, which is transmitted by mosquitoes and may cause birth defects. The Public Health Agency of Canada is recommending that pregnant women and those considering becoming pregnant discuss their travel plans with their health care provider to assess their risk and consider postponing travel to areas where the Zika virus is circulating.
Click here to read the full Travel Health Notice from the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Are you booked to travel to an area affected by the Zika Virus?
Canada’s major airline carriers say they’re allowing pregnant women to make adjustments to their trips; however, their policies differ. Many future travellers have growing concerns and questions over cancelling this upcoming travels. What will cancellation penalties be? Can I get a refund? The good news is that some major airlines and cruise lines are bending their usually strict rules on cancellation for passengers with tickets to the affected areas. If you're not pregnant or trying to become pregnant and still prefer to cancel, getting a refund may be more difficult. In either case it is important to first check with your insurance policy.
Contact your travel consultant to assist you with your options. Please note that Travel Agencies are required to follow the supplier’s policies.