Holidaymakers urged to get EU health card before travelling

Irish people holidaying in mainland Europe risk being turned away from public hospitals if they do not carry a European Health Insurance Card.

A travel insurance provider is urging people to apply for the free card, or a replacement card if their previous card has expired.

The EHIC allows travellers who become ill or injured while on a temporary stay in the European Economic Area to receive treatment within the public system of that country.