Mpox: what you need to know
Updated: 26 August 2024
Mpox (monkeypox) is a viral disease that historically occurred mostly in tropical rainforest areas of central and west Africa and has spread to other regions. It can spread between animals and humans.
The mpox virus is part of the same family of viruses as the virus which causes smallpox. According to the Australian Government, it is a rare viral illness that can become serious. For most people, symptoms will clear up on their own after 2 to 4 weeks.
Since May 2022, there has been a global increase in mpox infections in multiple countries where the illness is not usually seen. Mpox was first reported in Australia May 2022.
On 14 August 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). Mpox was previously declared a PHEIC on 23 July 2022.
To this point mpox has not been identified as a pandemic or epidemic.
Cover-More Travel Insurance continues to monitor global developments, and we present the following coverage information for customers whose travel plans may be impacted.
Coverage
When coverage will apply
Cover-More Travel Insurance provides cover for claims for medical and additional expenses where a customer needs medical attention for mpox. However, customers need to be aware of advice about where they choose to travel, noting that the following general exclusion applies:
We will not pay for claims directly arising from you not following an advice or warning that is:
a) ‘Do not travel’ advice issued by the Australian Government on the website www.smartraveller.gov.au or the equivalent authority in Your country of residence responsible for setting advisories for citizens and/or residents; or
b) published in the mass media;
and the subject of the advice or warning relates to the nature of your claim. This exclusion does not apply to any events which are independent or unrelated to the reason for the warning.
When coverage will NOT apply
Cover-More Travel Insurance will not accept cancellation or amendments costs where a customer cancels or amends their plans due to mpox, noting the following information:
We will not pay for claims caused by your or any other person’s unwillingness or reluctance to proceed with the journey or deciding to change plans.
Cancellation Plus Cover
Customers who have purchased Cancellation Plus Cover for their insurance policy will be covered if they cancel their trip due to mpox.
Staying informed
As the Mpox global public health emergency continues to evolve, travellers can stay updated through the Smart Traveller website at smartraveller.gov.au.
For more specific information on care areas such as symptoms and risk reduction, visit www.smartraveller.gov.au/news-and-updates/mpox-global-public-health-emergency