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Mentor Advice

Question

Do I need to get any vaccinations before traveling abroad?

2 Replies from Mentors

  • mentor picture Emily Le
     
    Emily Le
    Doctoral Student, previously International Programs Counselor
    UCLA
    I got booster shots for tetanus and hepatitis shots. However, a number of universities require...
    I got booster shots for tetanus and hepatitis shots. However, a number of universities require students to get hepatitis shots before starting college so most study abroad students don’t need as many shots as before.
  • mentor picture Christa Sanders
     
    Christa Sanders
    Associate Director NYU in Ghana
    New York University
    It depends on where you plan to study. It’s best to check the CDC (...
    It depends on where you plan to study. It’s best to check the CDC ( www.cdc.gov) or WHO (www.who.int) websites for immunization requirements. For example, in Ghana, without yellow fever immunization, you are not permitted to enter the country. Several other immunizations are also highly recommended for students traveling to Ghana although not required. It’s best to visit an overseas clinic in the US before your departure where a medical professional will be able to prescribe the necessary shots and recommend appropriate medication for your period abroad.