Spain is Europe’s most likely place for tourist illness

SPAIN is one of the world’s most likely places for a tourist to fall ill, according to a new study.

The country sees the highest number of travel insurance claims of any country in Europe, putting in on a par with Egypt and Turkey.

According to the survey, carried out by Debenhams travel insurance, the average medical claim for a sick Brit abroad is more than €1,100 (£900) – almost double the figure of a decade ago.

But despite this, research shows that more than six million British holidaymakers travel without arranging insurance every year.

Tourists are being warned that the cost of treating even just everyday illnesses could really break the bank if they do not have insurance.

Gastroenteritis – a stomach bug – is the number one cause for a claim, with symptoms including dehydration.

Other top claims include knee injuries, ear infections, chest infections and insect bites.