Travellers hit with respiratory infections, plus dengue fever, with young and old hit hard
Date: 28/08/2025 by Southern Cross Travel Insurance
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has been supporting multiple families and individuals affected by respiratory illnesses including RSV, influenza, and pneumonia. With a number of claims for dengue fever and measles, the insurer is calling for vigilance and for travellers to take precautions.
Jess Strange, Chief Customer Officer for SCTI, says that from the beginning of May through to the end of July, SCTI has had more than 130 claims for fever, 37 for pneumonia, 35 for influenza and four cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).1
“Over this time, we’ve also responded to 20 claims for Kiwis who have incurred costs associated with dengue fever, one in excess of $6,000.
“Sadly, in popular destinations such as Indonesia, the Cook Islands, Nepal, Vanuatu, the Philippines, and Samoa, dengue fever is affecting locals and travellers, with some tragic consequences for families.2 It’s frightening for travellers when they are away from home, often in locations where the medical systems aren’t as sophisticated as those in New Zealand.
RSV and influenza have affected very young children and older travellers, exposed to viruses on cruises, confined spaces, holidaying in resorts and even travelling across the ditch in Australia.
“From the UK, the USA and China through to Aussie, Japan, and Malaysia, even in their summer, influenza is hitting Kiwis hard.
“The team has told me how some travellers have ended up with severe pneumonia – leaving them very ill and vulnerable. Afflicted with RSV, adults in their mid-40s, silver-haired adventurers and toddlers aged 1 and 2, have often ended up needing rehydration drips, chest x-rays, and medication.
“Our amazing emergency assistance team has been on the case 24/7 supporting some very worried parents. As a mum, I can absolutely understand their concern, so it’s good to know families have reached out to us and sought medical care as soon as they noticed something was wrong.”
“It’s important that customers contact our emergency assistance team ASAP. Unfortunately, while we try and ensure our customers get all the quality care they need, sometimes this can be challenging in some locations. There are also some providers who are opportunistic and will seek to secure payment for care which may be unneeded and exceptionally costly. When you are concerned and worried – you are vulnerable. That’s why it’s important to contact our emergency assistance team.
Ms Strange notes that sometimes all a traveller needs is someone on the other end of the phone, at any time, who can listen and give them a steer in the right direction. “Don’t hesitate to call. We’re there and we really care about your wellbeing. Sometimes we’ll be coordinating travelling nurses, surgical care or even a medical evacuation to Aotearoa. Other times you just need to know your rights, and who is best placed to help. A friendly New Zealander can make a world of difference!
General advice for travellers
- Get travel insurance for you and your family when you book your travel. But if you happen to forget, you can purchase SCTI travel insurance even if you have already left. Terms and conditions do apply.
- Check vaccination requirements when you make your travel plans. Some destinations require evidence of protection against malaria, yellow fever, hepatitis A or B and typhus.
- When it comes to dengue and other mosquito borne illness like malaria or Zika
- Use insect repellent, with DEET (≥30%), picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus and reapply regularly, especially after sweating or swimming.
- Wear protective clothing including long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and socks. Light-coloured clothing is less attractive to mosquitoes.
- Choose safe accommodation with air conditioning or window & door screens. Use bed nets if sleeping outdoors or in unscreened rooms.
- Avoid mosquito breeding grounds, staying away from areas with stagnant water (e.g., ponds, open drains, water tanks).
- Be extra cautious during peak hours, limiting outdoor activities during early morning and late afternoon.
- Pack a comprehensive health kit including:
- Hand sanitiser (≥60% alcohol)
- Insect repellent
- SPF sunscreen
- Personal medications (in original packaging)
- First aid supplies
- Face masks (for crowded indoor areas)
- Anti-diarrheal medications, pain relievers, motion sickness remedies
2 There's no extra cost for kids (dependent children aged 20 and under) who are included on your policy.
