How can you find reliable health information for working abroad?

1 Check official travel advisories

One of the first things you should do is to check the official travel advisories from your home country and the country you are going to work in. These advisories will alert you to any health and safety issues, such as outbreaks, natural disasters, civil unrest, or terrorism, that may affect your travel plans or your well-being. You can also find recommendations on vaccinations, medications, and insurance that you may need for your trip.

2 Consult a travel health clinic

Another important step is to consult a travel health clinic at least six weeks before your departure. A travel health clinic is a specialized service that provides pre-travel health advice, vaccinations, prescriptions, and certificates for travelers. A travel health clinic can help you assess your health risks based on your destination, itinerary, and medical history. They can also give you advice on how to prevent and treat common travel-related illnesses and injuries.

3 Use reputable online resources

You can find reliable health information for working abroad by utilizing reputable online resources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers (IAMAT). WHO provides global health information, alerts, and guidance on various topics such as infectious diseases, environmental health, and travel health. CDC offers country-specific health information, travel notices, and tips on how to stay healthy and safe while traveling. IAMAT provides information on health risks, travel clinics, and medical services in over 200 countries. All of these sources are credible and comprehensive.

4 Join online communities

Another way to find reliable health information for working abroad is to join online communities of expats, digital nomads, or travelers who share their experiences and insights on living and working in different countries. You can ask questions, get recommendations, and learn from their stories and tips. However, be careful not to rely solely on anecdotal or personal opinions, and always verify the information you get from online sources with official or professional ones.

5 Keep yourself updated

Finally, you should keep yourself updated on the health situation and regulations of your destination country throughout your stay. You can do this by following the local news, checking the official websites of the government and the embassy of your home country, and subscribing to email or text alerts from reliable organizations. You should also have a plan in case of an emergency or a change in circumstances, such as how to contact your employer, your insurance company, or your family.

Finding reliable health information for working abroad is essential for your health and safety. By following these tips, you can prepare yourself for any potential health challenges and enjoy your work abroad experience.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?