Health Information

Health Information Form

All participants of Learning Abroad Center sponsored programs are required to complete the Health Information Form. This information is used to assist the program leader and on-site staff and the Learning Abroad Center to make any necessary preparations and be advised of any health issues. If there is any further information we should know regarding your health, please contact your program representative at the Learning Abroad Center. If you are participating on a cosponsored or outside program, the sponsoring institution may have a similar requirement.
As a reminder, by signing the Release and Waiver you have authorized Learning Abroad Center staff or its agents to release medical information contained in the Learning Abroad Center files to health care providers and to secure medical treatment on your behalf in the event of emergency medical illness or injury. You have also agreed to accept financial responsibility for the treatment.
Pre-Departure Health Procedures & PrecautionsYou should carefully read the information provided by your program sponsor on any required inoculations. While the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) publish guidelines for immunizations and other health precautions for travelers, only an individualized assessment can help you decide what you should do to prepare. Usually a family physician does not have the necessary background to provide travel information, since travel medicine is a unique specialty. A travel specialist is trained to consider your health history, current medications, drug allergies, and travel plans when recommending shots and other medications. Because travel clinics often book far in advance (especially around the holidays), you should find a travel clinic and make an appointment as soon as possible so that you can get a scheduled appointment in time to complete any recommended immunization series. Be aware that some immunizations need to be started months in advance of your departure.
Below is a list of clinics in Minnesota that specialize in travel medicine:
Boynton Health Service Travel Immunization ClinicUniversity of Minnesota410 Church St SE Minneapolis, MN 55455 Phone: 612.625.3222
Hennepin County Medical Center Traveler’s Clinic 525 Portland Ave SMinneapolis, MN 55414 Phone: 612.348.2741
St. Paul-Ramsey County Public Health 555 Cedar StSt. Paul, MN 55101Phone: 651.292.7746 (no telephone consultation, only travel appointments)
The International Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM) provides a listing of its member clinics by state. For more information about ISTM or a listing of clinics and doctors in your area, contact:
International Society of Travel Medicinee P.O. Box 871089 Stone Mountain, GA 30087-0028 Phone: 770.736.7060 Fax: 770.736.6732 Email:

You can also get more information from The Centers for Disease Controll by calling 404.639.3311.
Health Issues & Illnesses While Abroad Eat and drink lightly for several days after arrival until your system has had a chance to adjust to changes in climate and food. Adjusting to a new diet often causes mild intestinal upsets or diarrhea. If you are very ill, see a doctor. Depending on the country where you will be studying, you should bring along prescription medication such as Imodium for digestive illnesses. You should also check on other health issues, such as whether it is safe to drink the local water, and ask your doctor about preventive medication for the common illnesses that can result.
You should understand the health conditions in your host country before you leave, and obtain information about appropriate precautionary measures. A couple of tips are especially important no matter where you will be traveling:
If you have a medical condition that is not easily identified (diabetes, epilepsy, severe allergies), you should wear a medic alert bracelet while you are abroad. You should also inform the Learning Abroad Center, traveling companions, and on-site staff so that they can be prepared in case of an emergency. If you have a medical problem that could be aggravated by conditions abroad (e.g. asthma), consider carefully how you will deal with the problem abroad and discuss it with your physician before you leave home.
AIDS is a major concern in some locations. While abroad, avoid injections and blood transfusions. If an injection is required, make sure that the syringe comes directly from a sealed package or that it has been sterilized in boiling water for 20 minutes. Diabetics are encouraged to bring a sufficient supply of needles and syringes with a prescription or doctor’s authorization. Avoid ear piercing and tattooing if AIDS is a concern in the area.
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Health information specific to your host country will be included in your program handbook, discussed at your program orientation, and/or addressed upon arrival in your country. If you are participating on an outside program, contact your program sponsor for health related information specific to your host country. It may sound like there are a lot of health risks to be aware of, but do not be obsessed with your physical health! Most travelers and students overseas will not experience anything worse than a mild case of diarrhea, and just a few common sense practices can help greatly to keep you healthy during your overseas stay.
In the event you experience relationship or sexual harassment/violence while abroad, you are strongly encouraged to seek the support of resources in country. Seek safety first; then talk to the international student office or resident director of your program abroad. Review this brochure of advocacy/help centers in many of the cities/countries with Learning Abroad Center programs abroad. Connect with the University of Minnesota Aurora Center University of Minnesota Aurora Center for additional support and information while abroad and upon your return to the University of Minnesota.