Immunizations and Medical

As you may be spending some time in a developing country during your outreach, you will need to ensure that you will be protected from the diseases common to developing nations. Many of the diseases are able to knock you out for the whole outreach if you are not careful. Feel free to see your doctor before you leave your home country or set aside extra money to have the immunizations done here once you know exactly which country you will be going to. The outreach locations will be determined at the beginning of the school.

SOME IMMUNIZATIONS TO CONSIDER IN THE OUTREACH PHASE:

• Hepatitis A - A water borne disease - either Harvix A (series of 3 injections) or Immunoglobulin will suffice.
  
• Typhoid - A water borne disease (series of two injections OR oral tablets)
  
• Polio - Make sure you are up to date.
  
• Tetanus/Diphtheria - Should be updated every 5 years
  
• Mantoux - BCG - test for tuberculosis
  
• Cholera - Water borne disease
  
• Malaria - A course of Malaria tablets for 4 weeks - Recommend Larium and chloroquine OR Doxycycline and Chloroquine, as we will be going to areas that contain chloroquine resistant malaria.
  
• Hepatitis A & B - Carried in bodily fluids (blood, saliva), this is optional but recommended if having hands on contact with people. Series of 3 injections.

PLEASE SEE YOUR DOCTOR FOR HIS/HER RECOMMENDATIONS. Please note you may not require any of these immunizations. We just want you to be aware so you have the option to get it done before hand if you feel it will be more convenient or cost effective.

OTHER HANDY MEDICAL HINTS:

If you are from overseas, it may be difficult to find the same medication as the one you already have. In order to save hassles, bring what you need for the full 6 months. Ask your doctor to write a letter of authorization that states who you are and why you are taking it. This will enable you to carry your medication into other countries. This letter is a requirement.

• The saying goes: “Travel broadens the mind, and loosens the bowels!!” We recommend you bring or be prepared to buy tablets for diarrhea. And if you are prone to the opposite - laxatives are also a worthy investment!
• An antifungal cream is a handy addition - fungal infections are common in areas of high humidity and very common in Asia. A cheap pair of thongs (flip-flops) to wear while showering help in preventing tinea.
• Feel free to bring a small first aid kit.