Health Abroad

It's a good idea to have a dental, eye, and physical checkups before going abroad, particularly if you will be abroad for a semester or a full year. The program insurance you have will not cover routine physical, eye, dental, or similar exams and is meant for sickness and emergency medical expenses only.

The first few weeks overseas are stressful enough without you having to deal with an ailment or illness. So make sure you are in tip-top shape. Ask your physician for recommendations to pack in a small emergency medical kit to take with you, they may even pack you off with emergency antibiotics before you go, depending on where you are going and your medical history. 

If a physical and X-ray examinations are required for your visa, this may be done by your healthcare provider or at PUSH for a fee. While uncommon, this may be required for certain destinations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises travelers of any required or recommended immunizations for the countries they will visit, and we recommend all students check out their website for any country-specific information to be aware of. Even if no immunizations are required, their site can be a wealth of information for travelers.

If immunizations are needed, these are available at PUSH or your local health clinic and fees will vary based on the immunization. Make appointments early to ensure you are able to get in before your departure date. We also recommended that students consider confirming they are up-to-date on routine immunizations, as well as any immunizations required by the host country. 

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, take the lens prescription with you as well as an extra pair of glasses and enough contacts to last for your program duration. The same contact lens solution you use will likely be available overseas, though if you use a particular brand you can always research the availability before you go. Packing a large supply of solution is often not necessary. However, you may find the cost is higher or the brand you prefer is not available. Of course, eye doctors are also available overseas but it may take some time to get a new pair of glasses made or find the contacts you prefer, so having a supply with you and back-up glasses is always recommended. 

Likewise, if you have dental needs such as a retainer or other dental devices, consider if you would like to have a back-up in case of loss or breakage. Speak with your dentist about any concerns prior to departure.

Before going abroad, students who require accommodations of any type should contact their Study Abroad Advisor and/or a Program Specialist in the Disability Resource Center (DRC) to discuss what accommodations will be needed while abroad.

Students are responsible for requesting any reasonable accommodations required for any disability or medical need within two weeks of their acceptance. Failure to request accommodations on time may limit our ability to fully implement accommodations.

In order to obtain accommodations support for any disability diagnosis while studying abroad, you must provide the University’s Disability Resource Center (DRC) with appropriate documentation of disability. Requested accommodations may not be available at the overseas location, but the University will attempt to provide alternative accommodations when possible. For more information, contact the DRC. 

Many institutions overseas are equipped to accommodate students with disabilities, though this may vary by country or specific program. The Study Abroad Office can help you understand what is available where and what locations may or may not be suitable depending on your needs. In cases where the host institution is not able to provide accommodations, the Purdue DRC may be able to assist if resources are available. However, despite our best efforts some accommodations simply may not be available in a specific program. In this case, you may need to choose an alternate program. The Study Abroad Office will make every effort to help you find a program that can offer appropriate accommodations. 

It is important to let the Study Abroad Office know about your needs as soon as possible, so we have adequate time to work with overseas partners to help sort our accommodations for you, and if accommodations cannot be arranged, so that we have time to work with you on finding an alternative program. 

Students traveling with medication are solely responsible for knowing and obeying the laws of their destination. Do not assume your medications will be available or allowed in your country of travel; U.S. medications may be unlicensed or controlled at the destination. Plan early if you require routine or prescription medications. Countries also have different rules for carrying medications across borders. Review the CDC website Traveling with Medication for more information.  

If you take prescription medication, it is a good idea to meet with your doctor before leaving to discuss your medications and travel and to come up with a plan to continue your medications while overseas. Depending on the length of your program, you'll need to determine if you can take a full supply with you. 

For most medications, it is possible to get enough to have for the entire program, but it may require what is called a "vacation override" for insurance to pay for extra refills, so you'll want to ask early to ensure enough time for everything to be sorted out. For shorter programs, you may also be able to adjust the timing of your refills to be sure you refill it just before leaving. 

In some cases, medications you take may not be commonly prescribed abroad, may be subject to strict regulations, or could potentially be illegal. Your doctor can help you determine if this applies to your medications, and help you determine a plan on what to do if it does. This is particularly relevant if you are taking medications for ADHD or ADD. If this applies to you, there are some additional resources available online that may be helpful such as this site. 

It is not advised to stop taking prescription medications during your program unless advised to do so by a healthcare professional. If your medication isn't available or legal in your host country, speak to your healthcare professional about alternative options. If any changes to your medications are recommended, try to do so in advance of the program so you have time to adjust to the new medication before departure. 

In addition, we recommend students also speak with their physician to discuss plans and strategies for what to do if they feel their medication is becoming less effective while overseas, if you notice side effects, or if you experience other issues related to your medication or the condition it is treating while overseas. Discussing strategies you can use while abroad and how to reach out for help if always a good idea, as changes in routine and location may affect your normal self-care routine. 

Important tips for students taking prescription medication abroad:

• Speak with your prescribing physician EARLY to allow plenty of time to figure out any issues.
• You should not plan to have medications mailed to you while overseas. In many cases, this is illegal and medications may be confiscated by customs and never make it to you. 
• If a refill is necessary during a program, a visit to a local doctor to get a local prescription will be required. Overseas pharmacies will not refill U.S. prescriptions. You'll want to schedule an appointment for as soon as possible after arrival to ensure everything is sorted out before your refill is needed. Most programs have protocols in place to help students with this, please let us know if you'd like assistance in connecting with program staff overseas prior to departure.
• On-site staff will be able to help you locate an English-speaking doctor or counselor to speak with should you want to do so. It will be important that you speak up and talk to them should you find yourself in need, as they will be happy to help you. 
• Do not wait until you are in a dire situation before seeking help, seek out help at the first sign. 
• Keep all medications in original containers and in your personal item (with you) while traveling. 
• You may need to declare certain medications at customs. 
• Carry a letter from  your physician explaining your need for the prescription drugs in your possession, especially if the drugs are narcotics or controlled substances. In addition, carry a readable (preferably typed) copy of your prescription. When possible, ask the physician to include the generic name for the drug, not just a brand name, as it may be called something different abroad, or to get the prescription written in the host language. Walgreens typically will write prescriptions in 14 different languages, if needed.
• If you have a serious or complex condition, consider bringing a copy of your medical records with you. This was, an overseas physician will know how to care for you in the event you are unable to speak with them.
• Fill out any required medical forms for your program fully and accurately.

If you have food allergies or significant dietary restrictions, please make sure to discuss these with your study abroad advisor before departure. Most programs are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies, but you must be upfront about what you cannot eat. 

It is also important that you do some research on how your restrictions are viewed in your host country, and how you might be able to successfully navigate your restrictions in a new culture. Though dietary restrictions such as gluten allergies and food intolerances are becoming more widely known around the world, in some areas you may find local knowledge can be somewhat limited. Therefore, you need to know a variety of ways to explain what you cannot eat. 

While you are likely used to explaining your dietary needs and have developed strategies for this at home, you may find some differences overseas, particularly if you do not speak the language well. It is a good idea to invest in an allergy card that clearly states your allergy or restriction and the severity of it in the local language - this can help you explain concepts like cross-contamination easier. If you are planning to travel to multiple countries where you do not know the language, a set of multiple cards in different languages may be needed. 

When in doubt, there may be times when you need to opt to cook for yourself or pack your own meal for an outing. If your allergies are severe, make sure to have an EpiPen or other necessary medications and research where the nearest medical center is, even for cities you just plan to visit on the weekend. Ensure those you are traveling with are aware of your allergies and give them instructions on what to do in case of a severe reaction. 

In some countries, you may find allergies are better understood than intolerances or preferences, though this can depend on where you are. Even in Italy, where gluten traditionally plays a large role in the diet, you can now find many gluten-free options. 

Vegetarians, vegans, those who eat gluten-free, dairy-free, or those with religious reasons for avoiding certain foods will also need to do some research to help them understand local knowledge and how readily available options will be for them. Be extra wary of cultural considerations around food - for example, someone in Spain may say a food is vegetarian because it contains no meat, but it may have been cooked in pork fat. 

Students with allergies and dietary restrictions can and have had wonderful semesters abroad, but you will need to be proactive and do your research. Study abroad advisors are happy to help you research or answer any questions that you have, just ask! 

If you have a medical condition, you've likely developed ways to manage and/or treat your symptoms. However, sometimes students find that when studying abroad a new environment may affect their condition differently than what they are used to. For these reasons, it is important to identify a plan to continue any current care as well as to anticipate how you will continue to manage any new or worsening symptoms while abroad. Many students have successfully navigated studying abroad with chronic medical conditions, but it is never more important to practice good self-care and to let others know when you might need help then when you are on your own abroad.

You will need your current physician to fill out our Physician's Report as part of your medical form, but you should also use this as a way to prompt a conversation with your physician. Have a conversation with them about accessing any medication you may need, ask for suggestions on how to manage your condition in an unfamiliar environment, and take the opportunity to discuss any other concerns or ask questions. Work with your physician to get enough medication to take with you for your entire program, or to create a plan if this is not possible. Bring medical records with you, translated into the local language (if applicable). In the event you find yourself hospitalized abroad, local medical staff will be able to review your history. 

If you will need to see a doctor, counselor, or other health-care provider during your time abroad, alert the study abroad office who can put you in touch with contacts abroad to help you find a suitable health care provider before you leave. That way, you can arrive knowing you already have a care plan in place and will not have any interruptions to care. 

Think about all health conditions that may affect you while abroad, even if relatively minor. This includes seasonal allergies, recurring migraines, mental health concerns, and anything else that may leave you at less than your best without medication or treatment. 

If you find yourself struggling to manage any kind of medical condition, do not be afraid to seek out help. Local study abroad staff are there to support you, and certainly don't want you to suffer. They will be happy to help you find a doctor, pharmacist, counselor, or mental health professional to help you get back on your feet. 

We are sure you want to remain healthy while overseas. To get sick in another country where you don't know very many people and Mom's chicken soup won't com to the rescue doesn't sound like a lot of fun.

Of more importance, if you are feeling good you can maintain a sunny disposition and are able to regard your experience in a positive light. You will have more energy, be optimistic, happy, and less troubled by fatigue, stress, or worries.

Taking care of yourself starts by eating right, exercising, getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and keeping alcohol use to a minimum. Yeah, yeah we know - you've heard this before. However, taking care of yourself becomes even more important while traveling. The most common reason students end up sick while abroad is because they simply ran themselves into the ground - trying to do it all and not prioritizing sleep, rest, hydration, or nutrition. While there certainly will be times you indulge in delicious food (we hope you do!) or lose a bit of sleep for an epic weekend trip - you need to find balance and other times when you can take it easier to rest and recharge.

Studying abroad will drastically change your daily routine. As a result, your physical and mental health can be affected. You will be experiencing jet lag, culture shock, emotional reactions to changes in diet or lack of exercise, anxiety, homesickness, or loneliness. Your stomach may need a little time to adjust to diet changes. Prepare yourself and determine how best to handle any issues that arise. 

To fully appreciate your study abroad experience, you need time to absorb and ponder on your new experiences. Take a day or two to aimlessly wander around your host city and see what you find, allow yourself a rest day where you do nothing, try to establish a routine, and get some exercise when you can. Remember that taking time to care for yourself is always a good investment and it's OK to say no to going out when you need a night (or weekend) off.

Common causes of ailments for newcomers abroad are usually related to the different bacteria found in food and drinking water, often leading to short-term digestive problems. This can present itself either mildly or severely, so seek out help if needed. You may want to pack along some medicine you know is effective for you for minor stomach upset, diarrhea, or constipation. While remedies are certainly available locally, having an initial supply on hand can help give peace of mind.

When abroad, consider food safe to eat if it is served steaming hot and is thoroughly cooked (not cooked, cooled, and moderately reheated). Other things considered safe include that which you can peel (oranges, avocados, etc..), processed beverages you can pop open (bottled water, carbonated soda, etc..), and piping hot coffee or tea. Exercise your judgment on other foods, those sitting at room temperature or uncovered foods requiring refrigeration, as well as food sitting out in the open sun may be more likely to cause issues. In some locations, this will be more of a concern than others - but remember that food poisoning can and does happen everywhere.

In locations where tap water is not recommend to drink, also be cautious of other uses of water, such as for brushing your teeth. Ice can also be suspect as you cannot be sure if it was made with tap water. Always ask, or if in doubt, go for bottled water that has an intact seal. 

In many countries, open-air food stalls are very popular with locals and tourists alike. Yes, the food will look delectable (if not strange at times). Fortunately, they should be safe to eat if you follow simple guidelines. Eat only food that appears to have been thoroughly cooked. Go to the stalls where there is a line, there is high turnover, and food does not sit out too long. Choose food you can eat on a stick, avoid silverware and plates. Drink bottled water, no matter how refreshing the juices may look. Avoid ice in your drinks. 

We also often see that minor common injuries (that small cut you got opening a container, an insect bite, a sprained foot from missing a stair step) can also turn into bigger issues if not treated carefully or taken seriously. Be sure to apply proper wound care even for minor injuries, as you certainly don't want them to get infected or worsen and cause a trip to the ER later. That said, it's better to seek help at the first sign of a problem and not wait until it's an emergency. 

In some locations, you may need to consider insect-borne diseases that may be prevalent in your new environment. The best tool for prevention is information, research where you are going and learn about ways to protect yourself from insects. Locals will have a wealth of advice to share, don't be afraid to ask! 

And of course, another common cause of ailment is simply exhaustion. Students who stay up late every night and spend each weekend on whirlwind adventures will often find themselves more susceptible to the common cold or flu. Adequate rest and good hydration can help avoid this. 

In general, students studying abroad are traveling more than they do at home - some simple hygiene tips can  help decrease your chances of becoming sick:

• Always wash your hands before eating, soap and water is best but hand sanitizer works in a pinch
• Avoid touching your face/mouth/nose with dirty hands
• Clean/sanitize your cell phone regularly, and avoid touching it during meals - if you must, take a picture of your food and then put it away and wash your hands!
• Stay hydrated

Attending to your mental wellness is just as important as looking after your physical health. As with your physical health, you may find that increased stress, disruption of usual self-care routines, and separation from familiar places and people make it more challenging to maintain your mental wellness while abroad. 

Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to care for your mental health during your program. Making friends, especially with other students and your neighbors or host family, will help you develop a local support system and give you a feeling of belonging. Participate in community events when you can, and consider getting involved with a club or a team. Additionally, try identifying a few local places to visit often, like a favorite park, library, or coffee shop. This helps foster a sense of place, and you might even get to know some of the other "regulars". 

Unfortunately, with physical and mental health alike, not all problems can be avoided with a preventative approach. As mentioned in your orientations, culture stress and the adjustment process are normal and can be constructive for study abroad students. However, it is also important to recognize the difference between this productive stress and more acute or persistent problems. If this describes anything you or a friend are experiencing while abroad, do not hesitate to reach out for support.

While the types of assistance available at your study abroad site may differ from what is available at Purdue, the Study Abroad Office and our international partners will work to connect you with resources that can help. If you have any questions or concerns about mental health abroad before or during your program, be sure to speak with your study abroad advisor or program leader. 

For students who already experience anxiety, depression, or any other mental health conditions, it is important to identify strategies for self-care while abroad and to seek to continue any existing therapies, medications, or strategies that work well for you. If you currently see a healthcare provider on a regular basis, make sure to set up a plan for continuing this. Sometimes, your current provider can continue to speak with you over the phone or by video call, but if this is not possible we can put you in touch with people in your host country that can help you find a local health care provider. 

For some students, mental health conditions may present themselves for the first time while abroad. If you find yourself struggling more than what you feel is normal or have any concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out for help. Study abroad staff both at Purdue and at your program site can help you find resources or simply be sometime to listen to you and help you determine what steps to take next.

Did you know that while abroad you still have access to many of the resources available to on-campus students? This includes access to Therapy Assistance Online (TAO). This program offers free and confidential well-being resources and is a self-guided program informed by psychotherapy research. It may help with anxiety, depression, and other mental wellness concerns.

To access TAO or learn more, visit: https://www.purdue.edu/caps/students/resources/self-help/digital/tao.php 

In addition, students enrolled in Purdue's insurance plan have access to remote mental health counseling services, which provides accessible psychological care administered by US-based specialists, available 24/7. For more information and to find the phone numbers to call for this service, see your Insurance Brochure. 

If you have not disclosed your travel plans to your current physician or mental health provider(s) and have any conditions, schedule a consult as soon as possible. Discuss any special program requirements or unique environmental factors; review these considerations together and discuss actions that you can take to manage your health abroad.

If you don't currently have any physical or mental health conditions or concerns, it is still generally a good idea to schedule a check-up, eye exam, dental exam, etc... before departure, particularly if you are participating on longer programs. 

For all students, before you leave is the best time to address anything you've been meaning to get checked out and do not let any new concerns linger until after departure. It's best to get ahead of things before you leave, so that things do not worsen while you are abroad.

Review travel considerations, prevention strategies, and recommended vaccinations for your destination(s) at CDC Travelers’ Health. While vaccinations are not always required, it is important to read through the health information for all countries you plan to travel to. Travel counseling and immunizations may be obtained at PUSH or your physician. 

Well before travel, consider routine care that you receive or may need while abroad. The University-approved insurance will not pay for routine physical, eye, dental, or similar exams; those should be completed prior to travel.

If you have pre-existing conditions, consult the Insurance Matters page for more information. 

Students may also want to consult their regular insurance providers to see what (if anything) can and cannot be covered while overseas.

Do not assume your medications will be available or allowed in your country of travel; U.S. medications may be unlicensed or controlled at the destination. Plan early if you require routine or prescription medications. Countries also have different rules for carrying medications across borders. Review the CDC resource “Traveling with Medication” as well as the section above on this page for more information.

Students are responsible for requesting any reasonable accommodations required for any disability within two weeks of acceptance to a program.

In order to obtain accommodations while studying abroad, you must provide the University’s Disability Resource Center (DRC) with appropriate documentation of disability. Requested accommodations may not be available at the overseas location, but the University will attempt to provide alternative accommodations when possible.

If you do not make accommodation requests in a timely manner, it may be impossible for accommodations to be implemented or to be implemented in time to be effective.

For more information, contact the DRC. 

If you have dietary restrictions, and/or food allergies, discuss them with your physician and your study abroad advisor as soon as possible. While accommodation cannot be guaranteed, efforts will be made to support requests received in a timely manner. You should plan to carry an Allergy Card.