Holiday sickness is in the news again, with more than 9 million Brits having been chased by claims management companies to make holiday sickness claims, ABTA reports. 

Most holiday sickness claims are for around £2,000. But before you make a claim, get the facts. 

1: Don't make a fake claim

Many holiday makers who make false claims say they got food poisoning at their hotel or resort.

The government is clamping down on fake claims. Making a fake claim is a serious crime in the UK. In October 2017, a couple from Merseyside were jailed for faking food poisoning on their holiday.

Someone may contact you to make a claim. If you weren't ill, delete their message or hang up.

To learn more, watch ABTA's video 

2: Making a real claim

If you did get food poisoning on holiday, you might be thinking about making a claim. Here are some things you need to keep in mind.

If you booked your holiday with a tour operator, get help from ABTA.

If you were an independent traveller, visit Citizens Advice.

If you decide to get help from a lawyer, give them as much information as you can. This will help your lawyer gives you good advice.  

3: The law can help if you get sick on holiday

If you get sick on holiday, don't forget these legal facts.  

Your right to sick leave

You may be able to take sick leave from work instead of annual leave. This usually applies if you fall ill while on annual leave or just before it starts.

Find out more on the Government's website.  

EHIC card and access to healthcare in Europe

The EHIC card covers European holidays. It gives you access to free or reduced-cost healthcare in 32 European countries.

Apply for an EHIC card