OB Medical and Mental Health Considerations
Vaccinations/Immunizations:
Most countries require you to carry proof of your vaccination record with your essential papers. Advice on which vaccines you should have can be obtained from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention Travel Pages on the internet. They have different sections that address particular regions around the world, and lists of the countries that are included in each region. Each travel page summary suggests which vaccinations to boost, which new vaccinations to have, and which medications to carry. Some vaccines must be taken several weeks before departure. Consult with your physician SOON. www.cdc.gov/travel/destinat.htm The CDC is responsible for pointing out ALL the potential risks, however remote, and they also offer sound advice for avoiding risks. The most frequently reported illness is ‘traveler’s diarrhea and there is a special section on ‘Food and Water’ that discusses this.
Medications:
You should ask your physician for a new prescription for the medications you must take. They may or may not be able to be filled in your host country. Some students make certain they have adequate supplies of needed medications for the duration of their exchange. Make sure to check on the availability of any prescriptions before your departure.
Braces:
If you currently have braces and are in the middle of treatment, we suggest you speak with your orthodontist regarding your options. In most cases, it is difficult to continue your treatment while in a foreign country. Students have opted to take off their braces and have them put back on when they return. Others are able to speed up their treatment. This should be a discussion you have with the orthodontist once you have been selected as the Outbound student.
Glasses:
If you wear glasses, a copy of your lens prescription, or even better, a spare set of glasses, can help avoid a big problem in the event your glasses are lost or broken. If you will turn 18 during your exchange year be sure to sign a medical release at your doctor’s office prior to your departure.
Allergies:
Make sure your hosting club and host family are aware of any allergies you may have, especially if you carry an epi-pen. Please also advise if there are any needed medications if you are to have an allergic reaction or attack.
Mental Health:
If you have mental health issues that require medication or treatment while on exchange, make certain that you stay on the medication unless you have been released by your physician. Any mental health issue must be disclosed to us, your host family, and host district. Some mental health issues get worse or return while on exchange and are under the stress of adjusting to a totally new environment. So, it is necessary that we are aware so we can respond and support you in a positive manner.