booklets and brochures

your passport to a safe trip abroad

dealing with problems

illness or medical emergency

Carry a summary of your medical history, including information on past illnesses, allergies, and blood type.

Carry an ample supply of any prescription medication you are required to take. It is also recommended that you take along an extra prescription in case you need a refill. Be sure to ask for the generic name of any prescription drug as brand names differ in other countries.

Always leave medicines in the original labeled containers.

Check with your medical insurance agent to make sure your medical expenses will be covered if you incur an injury or illness while traveling abroad.

To help prevent illness while you are abroad, get a medical checkup before your trip and make sure that your immunizations are up-to-date.

Do not hesitate to see medical assistance if you need it. Should you require medical services due to injury or serious illness, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate where a representative is on duty 24 hours a day. This individual can provide the names of reputable physicians and hospitals that can help you avoid improper treatment and/or large medical bills. In most cases, hotel personnel also provide good advice, although there have been reports of clerks who have arrangements with unethical physicians.

Arrests

If you are arrested for any reason, ask permission to notify the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. In some countries your request may not be honored immediately. Be persistent.

A consular officer cannot arrange for free legal aid or provide bail money for you. He/she can provide you with names of English-speaking attorneys and help you find adequate legal representation. He/she can also contact your traveling companions or relatives in the United States, or intervene if you are receiving discriminatory treatment.

Other Unforeseen Circumstances / Situations

During your travels, it will be most unlikely that you will ever be hijacked, kidnapped, held captive, or become a victim of terrorist or criminal activity. You should be aware, however, that the terrorist and criminal threat varies from country to country and that sometimes dangerous or unforeseen circumstances may occur. The information provided in the following sections is not meant to alarm you, but is simply provided as guidance.