How do I stay healthy?

SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS http://suabroad.syr.edu/ Rated among the top academic programs abroad! Syracuse University is synonymous with quality coursework, world class internships, and superb student services. Why choose anyone else? NEW YORK UNIVERSITY STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS http://www.nyu.edu/studyabroad NYU has a signature system of academic and student support services in place to keep you thriving abroad both in and out of the classroom. We offer semester-long and academic-year undergraduate programs on 3 continents - Africa, Asia, and Europe - in addition to other summer study abroad and international exchanges. Experience the world with NYU.

Before you go abroad make sure to have your regular physical and dental checkups. If you take prescription medications regularly, bring a supply to last throughout your time abroad, if practical. It might be wise to also have a letter from your home physician or pharmacist describing your medicines, their dosage, a generic name for them and describing the condition being treated. Make sure all drugs are in the original pharmacy containers and are clearly labeled. You should carry copies of the prescriptions to avoid problems with Customs. If you are diabetic or have another medical condition in which a syringe is needed to administer medication, bring a supply of disposable syringes. For the flight to your program site, put any prescription medication, eyeglasses, and contact lenses in your carry-on bag. Don't take the risk of these items being misrouted or lost with your checked luggage.

Immunizations may be required by certain countries. Even if they are not required, consult your doctor, local travel clinic or county health department to see if they are recommended. It may also be wise for you to have your basic childhood immunizations (tetanus, polio, diphtheria, etc.) updated. If you will be traveling to a developing country, then typhoid fever, hepatitis A and B, cholera and yellow fever are frequently recommended immunizations. Don't forget anti-malarial medicine if traveling to malarial areas.

Try to get information about the health care system of where you will be studying so you are prepared and take a medical kit along with basic first aid items. Be aware of issues you might face regarding a new diet, water that may be unhealthy, and other such concerns. Be prepared for basic ailments such as diarrhea with standard over the counter medications or potentially prescription strength options.

The rules for staying safe and healthy abroad are typically very similar to those at home. Avoid drug use or excessive alcohol consumption. Be aware of the dangers of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, particularly in certain countries where HIV is a widespread health problem. Be aware of your surroundings and use common sense. Don't wander alone at night or in unfamiliar areas. Be careful when dealing with unfamiliar traffic patterns and situations. Don't attract unnecessary attention to yourself. Protect your passport. Our Student Guide has many more helpful suggestions, but these are some of the basics.

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Copyright © 2008. EducationDynamics All rights reserved. Updated and reprinted with permission for inclusion in the IIEPassport Study Abroad Directories.

The contents of this handbook are intended for the use of students, advisers, and administrators. The contents of this handbook are the property of EducationDynamics and author Bill Hoffa, and are protected under the copyright laws of the United States of America.