Health & Safety

The safety and well-being of all Learning Abroad participants is our top priority. While you may be abroad for only a few short weeks, it is important to be aware of health and safety matters and concerns. Read through this information carefully as this site aims to provide useful information and suggestions on how to remain safe and healthy throughout your experience abroad.

 

Health

Physician’s Form 

In the interest of your health and safety as well as participation, we require that you meet with a medical physician to determine your ability to participate in the Learning Abroad program. You can download and print this form from your profile to have completed by your personal physician or the Student Health Center located on the 2nd floor of the Camden Campus Center. This information will remain confidential and will be provided only to the Associate Dean of International Programs, the Coordinator of the Learning Abroad program and the faculty director(s) of the Learning Abroad Program overseas, and those with a need to know for the purpose of providing any necessary accommodations or in the event that medical attention is necessary.

 

Immunization Requirements 

Immunization requirements and recommendations vary by country.  It is important to update yourself on any health concerns in your host country.  The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is an excellent source.  You can find the most updated information on country specific information on diseases, water precautions and required/recommended vaccinations. For more information, go to the CDC website.  In addition, there is a wealth of health related country specific information available on On Call Insurance website. 

You are required to have all vaccinations up-to date and to have had all destination-required immunizations completed before your departure. This includes COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters as required by the destination country’s government. Vaccination requirement waivers acquired through Rutgers University will not be acceptable for international travel. 

 

Insurance

All Rutgers students, faculty, and staff will be enrolled in international travel and health insurance through On-Call International. Plan details can be viewed on the On Call Insurance website, Portal Group ID: 100114CPPD20. 

 

Safety

Safety Tips

  • Leave any valuables you would be sad to lose (electronics, jewelry, etc.) at home. 
  • Make copies of important documents (passport, ID, credit cards, etc.) and leave a copy with someone at home.
  • Stay in groups, especially at night. 
  • Be aware of local laws that may be culturally different than in the United States. 
  • In a city-wide emergency, shelter in place or meet at the designated location. 
  • Do not partake in drug or alcohol consumption that may impair your ability to make safe decisions
  • Know who to contact in an emergency (faculty leaders, local 911, On-Call International, nearest U.S. Embassy, etc.) 

Safety protocols are situational depending on travel destination. More detailed instructions and considerations will be provided at the pre-departure orientation and in discussions with faculty directors. 

 

Resources