PRE-DEPARTURE HEALTH & SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
- Make an appointment with your physician(s) before traveling abroad to discuss how any pre-existing medical conditions or prescriptions should be managed at your international location.
- A traveler who is going abroad with a pre-existing medical condition should carry a letter from the attending physician that describes the medical condition and any prescription medications, including the generic names of the prescribed drugs. If studying in a country where English is not spoken, the letter should also be translated into the host country's language, when possible.
- You should consider how you will refill any prescription medications for the length of time you will be abroad. If you use eyeglasses, consider packing an extra pair.
- Pack medicines and extra eyeglasses in your hand luggage so they will be available in case your checked luggage is lost.
- Any medications being carried overseas should be left in their original medical containers and be clearly labeled with your name on it. Travelers should check with the foreign embassy of the country they are visiting to make sure none of their required medications are considered to be illegal narcotics in that country.
- If you have allergies; reactions to certain medications, foods, or insect bites; or other unique medical problems, consider wearing a “medical alert” bracelet. You may also wish to carry a letter from your physician explaining required treatment should you become ill. If studying in a country where English is not spoken, the letter should also be translated into the host country's language when possible.
- If you are traveling with a medical device, electric personal care items (hairdryer, hair straightener, etc.) and/or other electronics (laptops, etc.) be sure to check the voltage considerations. The US uses 110 volts, where many other countries, such as those in Europe, use 220 volts. You want to be sure your devices are approved as “dual voltage”.
- Be aware that plugs are also different depending upon the country you are traveling to. You should consider purchasing an adapter before you depart.
Enroll for Security Updates for Your Destination
Benefits:
- Get real-time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there's an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.
- Please take time to explore the links below. They provide a great deal of information on Health and Safety abroad.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/Traveler's Health
- Health information on over 200 international travel destinations.
Zurich Travel Assist
Access Global Threat Assessments and Location Based Intelligence
You are enrolled through your Zurich insurance policy through Muhlenberg College for study abroad. See your insurance card page. Take a moment now and visit the website and register. Read the information about your location.
- OTHER TRAVEL & COUNTRY-SPECIFIC INFORMATION
U.S. Department of State - Travel Advisories & Consular Information Sheets
Center for Disease Control Travelers’ Health
Transportation Security Administration
Go to the While Abroad page to find out more about:
- Zurich Medical and Travel Insurance
- Medical, Safety, or Travel Emergency Protocol While Abroad
