subject: Studying Abroad During Flu Season [print this page] Why should I be concerned about flu during my study abroad program?
Age can also be a factor. So far, the largest number of H1N1 flu cases have been confirmed among people younger than 25 years old. This age group is also at risk of getting seasonal flu.
Here is the good news: seasonal flu and H1N1 flu are not reasons to cancel your study-abroad plans! We've come up with some simple steps you can follow to help make sure you stay healthy and get the most from your study-abroad experience!
For international travel, CDC recommends that you make an appointment to see a doctor familiar with travel medicine at least 46 weeks before you leave. The doctor will review your medical history and your study-abroad program to make sure you receive the right vaccinations, medicines, and information to stay healthy and safe.
Get your flu vaccine.
* Vaccines are the most important tool we have for preventing the flu. You can lower your chances of getting seasonal flu by getting a seasonal flu vaccine.
* Consider getting the H1N1 flu vaccine to protect against H1N1 flu if it is available. If you are younger than 25 years of age, you are in a recommended initial target group to receive the H1N1 flu vaccine.
Travel only when you feel well.
If you become ill, stay at home or in your place of lodging if you are already abroad, until your fever has been gone for at least 24 hours. If you have severe illness or you are at high risk for flu complications, seek medical care immediately.
Symptoms of the flu (including H1N1 flu) can include:
* fever*
* cough
* sore throat
* runny or stuffy nose
* body aches
* headache
* chills
* fatigue
* you may have vomiting and diarrhea
*You may have respiratory symptoms without fever.
If you are already outside the United States and need help finding medical care, Consular personnel at U.S. Embassies and Consulates abroad and in the U.S. are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens. To contact the U.S. Embassy or consulate in the country where you are visiting:
* 1-888-407-4747 if calling from the U.S. or Canada,
* Dial: 00 1 202-501-4444 if calling from overseas
Follow basic health tips while you are traveling abroad.
* Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing.
* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
