Assessment: The Office of Study Abroad and the University Physician are closely monitoring the spread of H1N1 worldwide. At present, outbreaks of H1N1 have not caused the review or suspension of any current or future study abroad programs. Plans are in place if program changes need to be made; however, in most cases, individuals who have contracted H1N1 experience typical, flu-like symptoms and fully recover.
Students Planning to Study Abroad:The University Physician recommends that students planning to study abroad consider obtaining the seasonal flu vaccine as well as the H1N1 vaccine prior to departure. Travelers should discuss this recommendation with a health care provider familiar with matters of global health and pandemic influenza.
The seasonal flu vaccine as well as the H1N1 vaccine is available at a variety of locations including the MSU Student Health Center, the MSU Travel Clinic (with a travel consultation appointment), the Ingham County Health Department, or the Michigan Community Department of Health for a vaccination clinic in your hometown.
Students Who Fall Ill Abroad: You are encouraged to seek medical attention as soon as possible to obtain appropriate treatment. Study abroad students who experience a medical emergency should contact OSA's 24/7 Emergency Assistance Line at 517-353-3784. For more information about H1N1 and Michigan State University's preparedness, read the University's special report.
Students Currently Abroad Seeking Vaccines:Your host institution or internship provider will distribute information regarding the availability of both the seasonal flu vaccine or the H1N1 vaccine in your area. Keep in mind that other countries are following similar prioritizing schemes as the U.S., so the vaccine will not likely be readily available to college-age students yet unless you fall into one of the higher-risk categories. As an example, see MSU/Michigan's current vaccine distribution priority list. If your host institution or internship provider is unable to arrange for your to get either vaccine, contact HTH International (MSU international medical insurance provider) at globalhealth@hthworldwide.com. Please provide your name, your affiliation with MSU (student) and the city and country where you are studying abroad, as well as how best to reach you (phone or e-mail). If you need additional assistance, please contact Julie Friend friendju@msu.edu in the Office of Study Abroad.
December 2, 2009
*Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to read PDF documents.
