As the campus community gears up for Spring Break, March 9–17, it’s important to prepare ahead of time for safe travels, whether you’re staying close to home or taking a trip abroad.
WVU Student Health Services, Urgent Care and Travel Medicine can provide an in-depth assessment of any travel itinerary with specific health recommendations, preventive medications and on-site vaccinations. The clinics are located on the Evansdale Campus in Student Health Building located across from the WVU Student Recreation Center. Regular hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. the week of Spring Break.
If you are planning to travel abroad, be sure to check for any travel advisories and health notices provided by the U.S. Department of State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding your destination.
Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccinations and any necessary vaccinations for your destination. Diseases that may not be common in the United States due to vaccination may be common in other countries.
It’s important to know how to get medical care if you become sick or injured while traveling. Check your health insurance to see if it includes international travel coverage and consider purchasing additional coverage. Be aware of potential health risks at your destination and learn about local warning systems, evacuation routes and shelters.
When packing for your trip, include a kit of health-related items that may not be available at your destination. Bring prescription and over-the-counter medicines for illnesses such as diarrhea, allergies, motion sickness and pain or fever. Include first-aid supplies such as bandages and antiseptic as well as health insurance cards and copies of prescriptions. These items are available at Mountaineer Pharmacy located next to Student Health Services. Some countries may require a letter from your physician for some prescriptions which can be provided at your appointment. Have a list of emergency contacts with you and be sure to share your travel plans and important documents with a designated contact person in case they are lost during travel.
As you prepare for your trip be sure to check WVU Medicine’s Traveler Checklist and tips for staying healthy while traveling.
For additional health information, follow @WVUhealth and @WVUsafety on Twitter/X and WVU Health Sciences and WVU Safety and Wellness on Facebook.