Research Your Destination

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) websites have information on health risks and considerations for most countries and regions around the world, as well as packing lists for each country:

The CDC occasionally issues travel alerts for specific countries or regions.  When the CDC issues a travel alert for a country or region where USC students study abroad, University officials meet to determine what steps to take to maximize student health.

Pre-departure Exams

Some programs require medical examinations, immunizations, or a doctor’s certification of health prior to students’ departures. The USC Health Center can provide these services. Be aware that in the semester of your program, you will not have access to the student health center without paying a special service fee. Before your departure, be sure to get any check-ups (gynecological, dental, vision, etc.) that would fall within the time you are abroad. You should bring the following important health records/information with you:

  • Blood type
  • Eyeglass and contact lens prescriptions
  • Prescriptions for medications being taken (including the generic name of any prescription drugs)

Prescriptions 

If you are currently taking prescription medicine, try to bring enough with you for the entire duration of your stay abroad. If your doctor normally prescribes your medication for short periods of time, explain how long you will be living overseas and request an exception. Don’t mix different medications in one bottle to save space in your luggage. Keep medication in the containers they originally came in. Do not stop taking prescribed medication while you are abroad without first checking with your doctor. Never have medications mailed to you overseas.

More tips for taking prescriptions abroad

International Travel Medical Clinic

The USC University Park Health Center and USC Campus Pharmacy provide a service called International Travel Health Clinic. They can provide exams and letters required for certain visas, advise you on managing diabetes or other health issues overseas, and provide immunizations if needed. You can contact them at (213) 740-0472.

International SOS Advice and Referrals 

You will receive an International SOS card. You may call the number listed on the card to get free advice about taking and obtaining medications abroad as well as referrals to English-speaking care providers.  Note that some medications are difficult if not impossible to obtain in certain countries. Your SOS member card gives you access to their website, which provides health and safety information for most countries. Check this site regularly and make sure that you are up to date on the recommended vaccinations for your specific country.

For your reference, the USC group number you need to access International SOS services is 11BSGC000010. Their US phone number is 215-942-8478.

Managing Diabetes and other Chronic Illnesses 

It is likely that the country you are going to will have available insulin and disposable syringes. Check availability and prices with the program director or the foreign university’s international students’ office before you go. For any other chronic illnesses, it is important to consult with your doctor, USC’s International Travel Medical Services, or International SOS before you go.  Remember that routine and continuing care and management of chronic conditions are not covered by ACE/Chubb  insurance plans.

Further information regarding diabetes and study abroad

Immunizations/Vaccinations 

Consult the USC Travel Clinic.

Regardless of the country you are going to, you should be up-to-date with your tetanus and diphtheria shots and vaccinations. For many countries, it is advisable to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B before you go.

Students with Special Needs 

Students with disabilities and special medical, physical, psychological or dietary needs may also face particular difficulties in the study abroad setting.

Notify the USC Overseas Studies staff and the host institution program coordinator of any special needs you may have. Arrange before you leave the U.S. any necessary steps to ensure your health and safety.

For more information:

International SOS: http://www.internationalsos.com

Mobility International USA: http://www.miusa.org/

For more information about managing health conditions abroad, see Staying Healthy Overseas