HEALTH AND SAFETY

Medical:
-Vaccinations are needed prior to visiting India. Please see the CDC website for particulars

-Doctors in India are very good, affordable and easily assessable. It is recommended, however, that you carry travel heath insurance. If you have SAIC's health insurance please contact Health Services to learn the details of your policy.

-Medications are easy to get, you do not need a prescription in India. However, it is recommended that people pack a personal medical kit with anti-diarrhea, re-hydrating salts, aspirin, asthma medicine, and any of their personal pharmaceutical needs. The reason is that if you are unwell it can be overwhelming to try and get the medicine you need, and the brand names are different. It is very comforting to just use a brand you already knows works for you.

-Those who suffer from Asthma, please take note that New Delhi in January is very smoggy and foggy. Please pack all medications you would need and consult your doctor before traveling.

Health:

-It is very easy to get sick in India, mainly due to the water. Everyone not from India should only drink boiled water, or a trusted brand of bottled water. Sanskriti has filtered water, and then bottled water at a cost.

-DO NOT take ice in your beverage, street food, or any drink which is made with street water. Only eat raw fruits and vegetables which come in a skin. i.e. no grapes or lettuce. It is also recommended that students carry a handkerchief or small disinfectant towelettes to wipe off glasses and silverware in eating establishments.

Safety:

-Please see the US Department of State website. This website is set up to help international travellers.

-During the faculty travels we have personally never felt threatened in India. However, be on the conservative side with respect to your personal safety. It is advised that women dress conservatively, keeping their shoulders and legs covered. Long pants and Indian style/Kurti tops work very well.
-New Delhi is a large city like Chicago, and as in Chicago it is recommended that students move around in pairs, refrain from moving around very late at night, and be wary of pick pockets in crowded areas.