Surge in Gastro Flu Claims Among Bali Tourists Alarms Insurers

Australian travel insurers are reporting a concerning rise in gastroenteritis claims from tourists returning from Bali. Southern Cross Travel Insurance recorded a staggering 79% increase in January 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with 54% of these cases linked to travelers visiting Indonesia since November. Similarly, 1Cover Travel Insurance reported a 40% increase in claims from 2023 to 2024, with gastroenteritis emerging as the number one medical issue for travelers.

Gastroenteritis, also known as traveler’s diarrhea, is an infection of the stomach and intestines caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. In Bali, E. coli bacteria are often responsible, typically spreading through contaminated water or food. Even tourists who avoid drinking unfiltered water directly can still become ill, as bacteria may be present in ice cubes, salads rinsed with unsafe water, or even on cutlery, plates, and glasses.

Despite improvements in food hygiene and sanitation in many of Bali’s major tourist areas, the risk remains high. Insurance data and firsthand accounts from travelers suggest that an increasing number of cases are severe, requiring hospitalization. Many tourists have needed IV fluids to combat dehydration, antibiotics to fight infections, and in rare but serious cases, surgery due to complications. A severe case in 2024 involved a tourist developing sepsis, resulting in a medical claim of nearly AUD 200,000. The average insurance claim for gastro-related illnesses in Bali over the past year has been around AUD 2000, but individual cases vary widely depending on the severity of the illness and the type of treatment required.

Jess Strange, Chief Customer Support Officer for Southern Cross Travel Insurance, stated that the rise in gastro claims isn’t limited to Bali but has also been reported in Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia. She pointed out that many travelers have become more relaxed about hygiene practices, which could be contributing to the surge in infections.

“Many travelers are eager to try local food experiences, such as street food, or they might unknowingly consume drinks with ice made from unfiltered water. But what we’re also noticing is that many have forgotten the hygiene habits reinforced during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as regular handwashing and using sanitizers to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses,” Strange told reporters.

Natalie Ball from 1Cover Travel Insurance warned that medical costs in Bali can be surprisingly high, especially in private hospitals that cater to tourists. “Most cases of gastroenteritis are mild and pass within a couple of days, but when symptoms become severe, travelers may need hospitalization. This often leads to trip cancellations and additional medical expenses that can add up quickly,” she explained.

Ball also emphasized the importance of having comprehensive travel insurance, as hospitals in Bali often require proof of coverage or upfront payment before providing treatment. “Unlike in some countries where emergency care is free, medical facilities in Bali and other parts of Indonesia may refuse to treat patients unless they can show proof of insurance or pay large sums upfront. This can be a huge financial burden, especially if hospitalization is required,” she added.

With cases of gastroenteritis on the rise, travel health experts strongly advise tourists to take extra precautions when visiting Bali or other Southeast Asian destinations. Preventative measures include:

Additionally, travelers should carefully review their travel insurance policies before departure to ensure they understand their coverage. Different providers have varying policies on medical claims, and knowing the details in advance can make the claims process smoother in case of an emergency.

By staying vigilant about hygiene and ensuring proper insurance coverage, travelers can significantly reduce their risk of illness and avoid costly medical expenses while enjoying their trip to Bali.