Health and Safety

Learn about your new environment: What illnesses are of most concern? Is the tap water potable? What is the health care system like? The Centers for Disease Control provides detailed information about each country.

The Graham Health Center is an excellent resource for OU students. We encourage you to schedule a pre-travel medical checkup at the GHC, or with your primary care physician, to discuss any health concerns related to your destination and to obtain recommended or required vaccinations and/or prescriptions. Schedule your checkup at least eight weeks prior to travel.

As part of your registration for your study abroad program, we ask that you fill out our Health Information Form thoroughly and forthrightly so that the International Education Office and your study abroad program leaders have accurate information regarding any pre-existing conditions and medical prescriptions.

All study abroad students and students traveling abroad for university purposes are covered by OU's free international health insurance policy, provided by CISI. The insurance provides excellent support should you need it abroad. Students register for this insurance as part of their study abroad application. Once you are registered, you can contact them 24/7 on the CISI Traveler app or by calling +1 (855) 951-2326 (toll-free from the U.S.) or +1 (443) 470-3043 (collect call from abroad). Print your insurance wallet card prior to travel and familiarize yourself with the services provided through your insurance policy. In addition to financial coverage of any health care costs, CISI can help you with scheduling medical appointments abroad. They will tell you where to go and the medical staff will be prepared for you and familiar with your case when you arrive. They can also recommend English-speaking specialists in a variety of fields close to where you are. The Mercer policy will not cover you while you are in the United States, so always maintain your domestic coverage.

If you will have any prescription medications you will take with you abroad, try to procure a sufficient supply for the duration of your stay. If not possible, make a plan to see a doctor upon arrival and obtain a local prescription. Familiarize yourself with the generic names of your medications, as they may have different commercial names in different countries. Carry your medications in their original packaging and take a printed prescription when you travel. Ensure there are no legal issues regarding your prescriptions in your destination country. Some frequently-used medications in the United States may be illegal in other countries, including certain types of ADHD or anti-depressive medications in Japan and certain types of birth control or sleep aids in some Middle Eastern and Islamic countries. The Centers for Disease Control website has detailed information for each country. Never travel abroad with marijuana or illegal drugs, even if you have a medical-use license.

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer if soap is not available. Follow local advice on using tap vs. bottled water and boil water if necessary. Be aware that you will need to acclimate to the local food and water and may experience temporary stomach distress after arriving. Keep a supply of over-the-counter medications for dealing with stomach issues, minor aches and pains, and the common cold. Follow local directives regarding social distancing and mask use.

Try to eat healthy and get sufficient sleep and exercise. Periodically check in with yourself and if you have any discomfort or health concerns get them addressed.

Mental health is physical health. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression or any other condition, have them addressed. The OU Counseling Center is available to assist you if needed.

Culture shock and homesickness are extremely common, even among seasoned travelers. Be prepared to experience a variety of emotions regarding your new surroundings, your daily routine, and your separation from friends and family back home throughout the course of your stay abroad. If you feel that these emotions are preventing you from enjoying yourself or making the most of your time abroad, talk with your program leaders.

Be sure to protect yourself from local environmental conditions, including weather, mosquitos and other insects, and high altitude. Use sunscreen and cover your head if you are out in the sun.

If you are sexually active, use protection and respect your partner's feelings and values, as well as your own. Be aware that customs and expectations surrounding dating, relationships, sex, and gender roles may differ greatly from place to place.

In addition to your OU international health insurance through CISI, you may have a second policy provided directly by your program. Familiarize yourself with the local healthcare resources and know where you can go for emergency assistance, basic medical concerns, and pharmaceutic needs. Your program leaders, as well as your insurance policy or policies, will be an excellent resource for this type of information.

Get a checkup if you experience any health concerns after arriving back home. Travelers from certain locations may be advised to get screened for tuberculosis or other conditions. If you plan to donate blood, you may need to disclose your recent travel.

You may experience reverse culture shock upon arriving home. We encourage you to join our eSpace, where we have resources for returned students.