Traveling allows for personal growth and cultural exchange, not to mention ample opportunities to build lasting memories and meaningful relationships. However, the act of travel using mass transportation does carry inherent physical health risks due to the exposure to hundreds, if not thousands, of people. So how does one stay as healthy as possible when embarking on an adventure abroad? Read on for resources and recommendations for mitigating the risk of getting sick while traveling!
Before you go:
- Visit the On Call Plan Information Portal (enter UT Group ID 100143CPPD21) to access the Destination Intelligence link to review useful information for location-specific conditions and risk levels.
- Research current health information for your intended destination(s): CDC Destination Guide.
- Make a plan for managing your health and dealing with unexpected events while abroad. Direct specific questions to your healthcare provider.
- Familiarize yourself with UT’s Overseas Insurance plan, including pandemic and quarantine coverage.
- Be aware of any entry requirements for your host country (e.g., proof of vaccination for specific illnesses).
- Monitor your health and get tested if you exhibit any symptoms of COVID-19 or other highly transmissible diseases.
- If you test positive for a contagious disease shortly before your planned departure, contact your airline if necessary to reschedule your flight based on your current health condition and/or your host country’s entry requirements, if applicable.
Getting There: Travel Health and Safety Advice
The following steps can help you to protect yourself and others from easily transmissible illnesses when flying:
- Check-in online to minimize time spent in line.
- Maintain social distancing when possible.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Wear a well-fitting mask that covers your nose and mouth.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Use cashless payment options when available.
- Direct airplane air blowers on you for a steady stream of purified air.
- Clean your hands often with soap and water or hand sanitizer that is 60% alcohol or more (view the TSA’s hand sanitizer carry-on policy).
- Use disinfectant wipes (at least 70% alcohol) to wipe surfaces.
- Remain in your seat, when possible, to minimize movement in the cabin.
- Consider bringing your own food and beverages (as allowed by TSA and airlines).
While You’re Abroad
- If you feel sick, contact On Call International. They can assist with scheduling medical appointments for testing and treatment, and with coordinating quarantine accommodations if required. (Visit the Overseas Insurance page for policy and coverage details.)
- If you contract a respiratory virus while traveling, adhere to CDC guidance on how to mitigate risk of transmission to others: Preventing Spread of Respiratory Viruses When You’re Sick.
- Monitor the latest policies and guidelines published by the local U.S. Embassy and as posted on official websites by public health authorities.
- UT Austin expects all travelers to follow guidelines set forth by local governments, public health authorities, and institutional partners.
- If you plan to travel to more than one country, be sure to review entry policies for all destinations and ensure you understand requirements for reentry to your host country.
