Travelers must prove pre-departure health to claim insurance compensation: lawmaker

03-02-2025 13:58 HKT

Travelers who acquired illness abroad must prove they were healthy before leaving Hong Kong to claim compensation, according to lawmaker Chan Pui-leung.

Chan, who also serves as the general manager of China Taiping Insurance (Hong Kong), advised citizens to avoid being “too frugal” when purchasing travel insurance and to carefully review coverage details.

His warning comes in the wake of Taiwanese star Barbie Hsu, known as “Big S,” who died in Japan after suffering from influenza complicated by pneumonia on Sunday.

Chan said that while travel insurance generally covers accidental situations, the flu is not classified as an "accident."

However, if it can be proven that the illness was contracted in Japan and not in Hong Kong, relevant medical expenses and one-time compensation may be reimbursed according to the policy terms, even in the event of death.

Regarding the impact of vaccination on insurance reimbursement, Chan noted that vaccination is not mandatory, and the insurance policy does not specify that the insured must be vaccinated, suggesting it should not affect reimbursement.

Steve Huen Kwok-chuen, executive director of EGL Tours, however said that Hong Kong tour groups have not been affected by the flu outbreaks in Japan, with no reports of Hongkongers requiring medical assistance or experiencing unfortunate deaths.

He said that while travel insurance typically covers illnesses acquired abroad, it’s crucial for travelers to maintain personal hygiene and consider vaccination.

Timothy Chui Ting-pong, executive director of the Hong Kong Tourism Association, described the death of "Big S" as an isolated incident but urged citizens to purchase travel insurance before traveling.

He also said the severity of the flu situation in Japan, encouraging travelers to wear masks and seek medical attention promptly if they experience symptoms of infection.

(Cheng Wong)

Chan Pui-leung (File photo)