A backpacker snorkelling accident in Queensland, Australia, has reinforced the need for
online travel insurance.
According to AAP, a 25 year-old woman was snorkelling as part of an organised trip off Queensland's Hayman Island when she was pulled unconscious from the water by the tour operators. The crew spent an hour performing CPR on the woman while a rescue helicopter was called and the tour boat made its way back to the port at Hayman Island.
RACQ-CQ Rescue said in a statement: "After assessment and intubation by the CQ Rescue doctor and intensive care paramedic and with the Hayman Island medical centre staff still working furiously on the girl, a pulse was found."
The young woman was then taken by helicopter to the hospital where she was said to be in a critical condition.
The incident reiterates the need for backpackers and other tourists to ensure they buy
worldwide travel insurance as part of their overseas plans, as some countries can charge high sums for essential medical treatment.
Gap year travel insurance is also an option for younger backpackers.
Check out Downunder's quote engine for
cheap travel insurance to Oz.
