Health and Safety - Saint Vincent College

Living and learning in a different physical and social environment places additional demands on one’s mind and body. The emotional effects of confronting a new lifestyle can arouse anxiety. As a result, you may experience a fluster of mood swings that can be very stressful. If you take proper care of yourself through rest, relaxation, and activities such as reading and exercise, you will be more capable of healthily adjusting to your surroundings.

Be clear about your health status when applying for a study abroad program and particular housing arrangements. Describe allergies, disabilities, psychological treatments, dietary requirements, and medical needs so that appropriate arrangements can be made. You should also inform the study abroad program staff and travel companions so that they can be prepared in case of an emergency. If you have a medical problem that could be aggravated by conditions abroad (e.g. asthma in dusty Cairo), consider carefully how you will deal with the problem overseas and discuss it with your doctor.

Make appointments for medical examinations well in advance to ensure that you are in good health before you leave and to complete all necessary immunizations. Request copies of important records, x-rays, and prescriptions in generic form to go with you. Update your health records as well, including eyeglass prescriptions and regular medications. You may want to take an extra pair of glasses with you. If you expect to need regular medical care abroad, take an informant letter from your physician at home, providing details of your medical conditions, care, and specific needs. If you self-inject prescribed medication, you may need to carry needles and syringes with you. You'll need a physician's prescription for medication and medical supplies to pass through customs. It is also important to keep medications in their original containers.

There are no required immunizations for most of Western Europe, Japan, Australia, Canada, and Mexico. Make sure your tetanus shot is current, and you should seriously consider a vaccination for Hepatitis A, a serious illness usually contracted through improper hygiene. If you are very concerned about possible health problems, contact the Center for Disease Control (CDC). They have an International Traveler's Hotline (404) 332-4559 where, by punching in the country code of your host country, you can get recorded information on vaccinations, food and water and current health problems. Their Internet address is www.cdc.gov/travel/travel.htm.