In order to have a healthy semester abroad, you need to take some preparatory steps before you leave. Below are some things to consider.
Look up the specific health requirements of your country.
Each country has certain requirements regarding physicals, vaccinations and medications.
Check the CDC’s website for information about your destination.
Schedule health visits.
Because of the differences in health care systems worldwide, it’s a good idea to take care of all health appointments prior to your program (particularly if you will be overseas long-term).
Get your physical, visit the dentist, and make an appointment with your ophthalmologist if your annual appointments are scheduled to fall within the period that you’ll be abroad.
Obtain travel immunizations.
If travel vaccinations are necessary for your destination, you can get them at these (and other) locations:
UNO Health Services
Phone: 402.554.2374
Location: 1st floor H&K Building
Kohll's Travel Vaccination Clinic
Phone: 402.393.1404
Location: 3427 South 84th Street
Passport Health Clinic
Phone: 402.715.9308
Location: Shaker Place, 10730 Pacific Street, Suite 221
Plan ahead for prescriptions.
If you take prescription medications, you need to plan in advance to ensure that you can take them with you abroad. You will need to obtain a supply that can last the duration of the trip plus a little extra.
If you’re participating in a longer-term program, you will need to contact your doctor and/or your pharmacy to request an extended supply. This might also necessitate a conversation with your insurance so that they cover the cost of the additional medication.
Some medications might not be legal in your host country or might require a doctor’s note for customs. Give yourself plenty of time to research and sort out prescriptions before you leave.
Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
STEP is a free program offered through the U.S. Department of State that allows you to automatically receive travel updates and information for the country where you will be traveling or living.
Signing up will also allow the U.S. Department of State to better assist you in case of an emergency, such as a lost/stolen passport or natural disaster.