HEALTH

Exploring a foreign country provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in an exciting new culture.  It also can provide a whole new host of possible diseases, tainted food and drink, and health risks.  Whether it’s a broken bone or food poisoning, be prepared in case of a health emergency overseas.  Plan ahead and protect yourself. 

Take care.  go from here.

Country Info
Staying Healthy Abroad
Medical Insurance
Prescriptions
Vaccinations/Shots
Travlers With Disabilities
Mental Health
H1N1 Info

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COUNTRY INFO

Warning!  Being uninformed may be hazardous to your health!  Outside of the U.S., especially in developing countries, you may encounter diseases that are no longer considered a threat here at home. 

Read through the Country Background Notes and Country Specific Information on the country you plan to visit to make sure you are aware of prevalent illnesses, water and food conditions, and current travel warnings . 

Less-developed countries may pose more of a challenge to staying healthy on your trip – make sure you know how to defend yourself against possible exposure to disease.

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STAYING HEALTHY ABROAD

Checking out other countries doesn’t mean ignoring the health habits you practice at home. In fact, you’ll need to pay even closer attention to what you are doing, eating, drinking or even just walking down the street.

Eat, Drink and be Wary
Thinking about sampling the native cuisine? Of course you are! Enjoying local delicacies is part of the wonderful experience of overseas travel, but eating the wrong things could make you very sick. Many countries don’t have the same food handling and preparation standards found in the United States. Food that is not stored or cooked properly could make you sick. Do your research on which local foods and drinks to avoid.

• Stay away from raw foods.
• Choose your local restaurants carefully. If it looks dirty in the dining room, it could be worse in the kitchen.
• Local water supplies could also be a breeding ground for bacteria. Always use bottled water (even to brush your teeth), and beware of fake bottled water – tap water sold as bottled.  Be aware that ice may also be made from local tap water.
• Practicing healthy habits, like washing your hands regularly, will help ensure that you stay healthy and enjoy your entire trip.

While you are keeping your eye on what you are drinking, make sure you keep an eye on who’s pouring it as well. Without sounding too scary, there’s the possibility of being served something you didn’t order. A number of illegal drugs can be slipped into your drink. These drugs can make you sleepy, unaware, or even unconscious. Remain aware of your drinks and:

• Don't drink anything you did not open yourself or that you didn't see being opened or poured by a bartender.
• Always watch your drink at parties and bars and get a new one if you leave it unattended for a while.

Get more health information from these expert sources:
• Travel Health Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Travel Health Information from the Food and Drug Administration
• Travel Health Information from the World Health Organization

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MEDICAL INSURANCE

Maybe it’s not the first thing that comes to mind when planning your trip, but uninsured travelers who encounter medical emergencies overseas often face extreme difficulties. Most U.S. medical insurance plans do not include coverage outside of the United States. Getting medical treatment and hospital care abroad can be very expensive, and, if you need it, a medical evacuation back to the U.S. can cost more than $50,000!

The U. S. consular officer at your local embassy can assist in locating appropriate medical services, informing family or friends, and even assist in the transfer of funds from back home. But ultimately, payment of hospital and other expenses is entirely your responsibility.

Check the terms of your health insurance policy, whether it’s your own, under your parents policy, or through your school. If you are not covered while out of the country, you may need to purchase additional coverage. Many travel agents and private companies offer plans that will cover health care expenses overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

See a list of companies that offer overseas medical coverage and other services.

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PRESCRIPTIONS

While you’re abroad is not the time to suddenly realize you ran out of your prescription! 
If you have a condition that requires regular medication, bring an extra quantity with you and pack it in your carry-on, just in case your checked luggage gets lost.  Just remember to keep it in its original container and clearly labeled – you don’t want to create the impression you’re carrying drugs which haven’t been prescribed to you.  In fact, you should check with the local embassy to make sure that your medication is acceptable to carry into the country.  Some countries may consider your prescription medication to be illegal.  Bring a letter from your doctor listing your medications and explaining why you need them.  Doing your research and having a letter can help prevent any misunderstandings along the way.
Bring extras of any medical necessities you need, like contact lenses or glasses.  You might want to pack a pair in both your carry-on bag and your checked luggage, just to be safe.

If you have allergies to certain medications, foods, insect bites, or other unique medical problems, consider wearing one of those “medical alert” bracelets and carry a letter from your doctor explaining required treatment if you become ill.  It might not be the coolest piece of jewelry you wear, but it could save your life. 

 

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Vaccinations/Shots

How important is it to do your research about vaccinations?  It might just save your life!  Make yourself aware of the different types of vaccinations and which ones you may need to travel to your destination.  Schedule an appointment with your doctor at least four to six weeks before you travel to ensure you receive all important shots.

Routine Vaccinations
Be sure that you and your family are up to date on your routine vaccinations. These vaccines are necessary for protection from diseases that are still common in many parts of the world even though they rarely occur in the United States. 

Recommended Vaccinations
These vaccines are recommended to protect travelers from illnesses present in other parts of the world and to prevent infectious diseases from crossing international borders. Which vaccinations you need will depend on a number of factors including your destination, whether you will be spending time in rural areas, the season of the year you are traveling, your age, health status, and previous immunizations.

Required Vaccinations
Currently, the only vaccine required by International Health Regulations is yellow fever vaccination for travel to certain countries in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America. Meningococcal vaccination is required by the government of Saudi Arabia for annual travel during the Hajj.

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TRAVELERS WITH DISABILITIES

Traveling through foreign lands gives you a unique opportunity to observe a rich tapestry of cultures and customs – this is true for those living with or without a disability.  Living with a disability in no way prevents you from experiencing international travel.
With plenty of vigilance, your trip abroad can not only be safe, but it can also be accessible. 
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Before You Go

  • First things first.  Check with you doctor to make sure that it is okay for you to travel.
  • Research study abroad programs to find one that will accommodate any special needs you may have.  Your study abroad office can direct you to many programs that set aside extra funds to make reasonable accommodations such as: personal care assistants, foreign sign language interpreters, oxygen providers, etc.
  • Thoroughly research your location(s) and its accessibility—wheel chair ramps can be narrower, hotel bathrooms may not have safety bars, and crossing lights may not have a sound indicator.  Accessibility laws vary from country to country, so it’s better to be prepared for what you may encounter before you go.
  • Before you book your flights, contact the airline early to confirm that your medical equipment (ventilator, wheelchair, etc.) meets the airline’s regulations; and obtain copies of the airline’s policies on the rights of passengers with disabilities.  Ask plenty of questions such as, “Will I be required to purchase a second seat for my medical equipment” or “is the airplane bathroom wheelchair accessible?”
  • Obtain a letter from your doctor on letterhead, explaining your need for any medical devices and medications.  If possible, have this letter translated into the language used in the locations you will be visiting.
  • Do you require oxygen service?  Currently, passengers are not allowed to bring their own oxygen canisters aboard to use during flights; and legally, airlines are not required to provide oxygen service.  Find out in advance about your airline’s procedures for allowing oxygen suppliers to meet you at the arrival gate.
  • Make sure you have more than adequate medical insurance to be prepared for the unexpected.   Are you covered under your parents' policy or through your school?  Now is a good time to find out if your current coverage covers you overseas.  Consider obtaining supplemental insurance to fill in any gaps your current provider misses.  And be sure to read the fine print about pre-existing conditions.  See a list of companies that offer overseas medical coverage and other services.
  • If you’re planning to travel to another country with your service animal, start the necessary documentation early.  The amount of paperwork involved in bringing an animal into some countries can take from as little as a few weeks up to the course of a year!  Be sure to contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting to find out the requirements of the country you will be visiting.  (Some countries even require the implantation of an identifying microchip!)  Ask your doctor to write a letter explaining your need for the animal, and get the health and rabies certificates from the animal’s veterinarian documenting that the animal is up-to-date on all shots.  Know how to obtain medical care, if needed, for your animal abroad.
  • If you already use the services of a personal assistant, chances are, you’ll want similar services abroad.  Make arrangements with your study abroad program to arrange for the services of an assistant or to find out how your current assistant can be accommodated.  Apart from program tuition, funds need to be set aside for your assistant’s transportation, lodging, and day-to-day expenses.
  • Since many other countries use 220-volt electricity while U.S. appliances use 110-volt electricity, you may need to purchase a "converter" or a "transformer" to be able to use your medical devices or equipment.  Check with your manufacturer to find out what will work best for your devices.
  • Find out from your study abroad program officials who to contact in case of a medical emergency, and create a list of the names and numbers of nearby medical facilities.
  • Join disability organizations and support groups located at your destination to create a support system to help you with the transition of living in another country.  The Mobility International website is a good place to start!
  • Learn how to say and/or write simple phrases in the language spoken at your destination explaining your disability, and how to ask for or reject help.  (“Thank you.  I do not need help.”  “I am blind.  Can you help me cross the street?”)
  • Bring an extra quantity of any medications with you and pack it in your carry-on, just in case your checked luggage gets lost.  Just remember to keep it in its original container and clearly labeled.  And while you’re at it, check with the local embassy to make sure that your medication is acceptable to carry into the country.  Visit www.tsa.gov for current medication screening procedures.
  • If you use a ventilator, try to carry a spare ventilator with you abroad.  Having some simple tools and a few replacement parts on hand doesn’t hurt either.

En Route

  • Whether you require a wheel-chair or a sight-guide, you can request assistance at your airline’s check-in to help you maneuver through the airport and to make your travel experience easier.
  • Know your rights when going through airport security screening both here and abroad.  For example, the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) limit of one carry-on bag and one personal bag does not apply to medical supplies and assistive devices. Visit the current TSA policies as it relates to disabilities.
  • If you are required to undergo a personal search and you need privacy, you can request for the screening to be conducted in a private area of the security checkpoint.  Feel free to request a disposable paper drape for additional privacy or if you want the Security Officer to change their gloves.
  • It’s a good idea to carry a Pacemaker Identification Card (ID) when going through airport security.   Do NOT walk through the metal detector or be hand-wanded.  Show the Security Officer your pacemaker ID ahead of time, and request a pat-down inspection.
  • Normally, oxygen sources are temporarily disconnected during security screening.  If you are not medically cleared to be disconnected or if you have concerns, ask the Security Officer for an alternate inspection process so you can remain connected.
  • Allow at least 90 minutes between connecting flights to make sure you have enough time to transfer between gates.
  • If you use a ventilator, know your ventilator settings in case the dials get knocked around while you’re traveling.  Check those settings regularly while traveling and try not to be separated from your ventilator during your travels.
  • If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask airline or airport personnel.  Be assertive and specific!

While You’re There

  • Each day, carefully pack everything you’ll need to take along while you’re away from your lodging for the day.  Be sure to bring back-up supplies in case of emergencies.
  • On a periodic basis, reach out to your support group of friends, family, faculty, officials, and locals to help ease any culture shock or homesickness you may experience. 
  • If you take medication or use other supplies, keep up with your schedule, and take inventory often to make sure you’re not running low.  A vacation or study abroad is a great opportunity to try new things, but this is not the time to experiment with not taking your medications or mixing alcohol with medicine. 
  • Take it easy.  Resist the urge to try to fill every waking minute with activities.  Every day presents an opportunity for a new adventure.  You’ll have plenty!
  • Above all else, be safe.  There are predators everywhere that try to take advantage of foreigners—there are others who particularly, may try to take advantage of your disability.  Ask for help when you need it; but be careful when accepting assistance from strangers.   Whether you simply shake your head with a stern look on your face, or unapologetically say “no,” be firm when declining unwelcome “help” from strangers.  Always practice basic safety rules like not flashing excessive cash or valuables, and traveling in groups; and always be aware of your surroundings.  If something doesn’t feel right or look right, you have the right to leave the situation immediately!

 

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MENTAL HEALTH

Traveling or studying overseas is not a cure for health conditions such as depression or attention deficit disorder.  Sometimes going abroad may in fact amplify a condition.  A student may not have adequate access to their prescription medication or mental health facilities.  In addition, culture shock, language barriers, and homesickness can deepen isolation or depression. 

Workable Plan
Before traveling, create a workable plan for managing your mental health while abroad.  The availability and quality of mental health services differ widely from country to country.  In many countries, students will find it difficult—and sometimes impossible—to find treatment for mental health conditions.  With your health services provider or your school, put together a workable mental health plan before you go overseas. 

  • If you have a medical or psychological condition that may require treatment while you are abroad, discuss this ahead of time with your doctor.   A vacation or study abroad is a great opportunity to try new things but this is not the time to experiment with not taking your medicine or mixing alcohol with medicine.  
  • Research the social culture of your destination to learn about how mental illnesses are viewed.  Attitudes toward mental health can greatly vary between countries. 
  • If you are studying abroad through your university, talk to your university about access to mental health services at overseas programs. Your study abroad office can help you decide what program would be best for you.
  • If currently receiving mental health services – including prescription medication – find out if those services and/or medication are available at your destination.   Also, check out our info about carrying prescriptions abroad.  
  • Consider the support system you’ll have in place while abroad.  If possible, know ahead of time who you can consult with about your mental health. 
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H1N1 Info

What’s H1N1?

2009-H1N1 Influenza (sometimes referred to as Novel H1N1 or “swine flu”) is a new virus causing illness in humans.  It was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009.  Many other countries, including Mexico and Canada, have reported citizens sick with this new virus.  The virus is spreading from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza spreads. 

You cannot catch 2009-H1N1 by eating properly cooked pork products.  The good news is that most folks infected with 2009-H1N1 fully recover, so there’s no need to panic, and you don’t have to cancel your travel!  However, you do need to stay informed. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a “phase six” pandemic in response to the spread of the 2009-H1N1 virus, indicating community level outbreaks in two or more different regions of the world.  The recent WHO declaration may cause some nations to initiate or to strengthen pre-existing screening and quarantine procedures for travelers. 

If you intend to travel abroad in the near future you should be aware that foreign authorities may check you for symptoms of 2009-H1N1 Influenza and you may experience significant travel delays as a result.  Please check the website of the embassy of the country you plan to visit for information on H1N1-related restrictions and procedures.

For more information about 2009-H1N1 Influenza, including steps you can take to stay healthy, visit the Department of State’s 2009-H1N1 webpage, the U.S. government’s pandemic influenza website, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization websites.

Also, make sure you check out our health tab which includes a section on staying healthy abroad.  Having all the information makes all the difference! go from here…

Take care of yourself wherever you go.  Prepare for your trip and go from here.