Pre-Departure Health Preparation

Prior to your departure, you should review worldwide health information and country-specific health requirements for all countries in which you will study, as well as those you think you will visit.  One of the best sources of information for international travelers is the Center for Disease Control and Prevention Web site. Note the special section tailored to study abroad students and a podcast.

If you have any questions regarding medical problems, immunization requirements, or other health issues that may affect your successful and complete participation in the program, you are expected to consult with either your personal physician, a local travel clinic such as the MSU Travel Clinic (see information below), or the Ingham County Health Department (Immunization line at 517-887-4300). Even if the countries you plan to visit have no required immunizations to enter, but you have a pre-existing medical condition or are on regular prescription medications, you should visit a health practitioner to discuss managing your condition and/or your medications abroad. This discussion may also include obtaining recommended, but not required vaccinations.

For higher health risk areas where required or recommended vaccinations are likely, (i.e. Africa, Asia, Caribbean, Eastern Europe, Latin America, Russia and the Middle East), plan to visit a health care professional at least three months prior to departure.

Students traveling to countries with low health risks (i.e. Canada, Western Europe, Australia, and New Zealand) will need to make sure routine vaccinations are up-to-date before leaving the United States. Additional vaccines are generally not required for these countries with low health risks. Review the MSU Travel Clinic’s Web site to learn of any recent outbreaks that may require additional vaccines.