Resources to Support Healthy Travel

Texas Global Risk and Safety advises every UT Austin student and employee traveling internationally to prepare for their experience abroad by researching local conditions, entry requirements, and available health and safety resources for their host destination. Travelers should also adhere to guidelines issued by health authorities to help mitigate the risk of infection and transmission of disease.

To Consider When Deciding to Go Abroad

As you explore options for international travel, research potential destinations and programs to make a safe and informed decision.

All travelers:

  • Visit the On Call Plan Information Portal (enter UT Group ID 100143CPPD21) to access the Destination Intelligence link to review useful information for location-specific conditions and risk levels.
  • Research current health information for your intended destination(s): CDC Destination Guide.
  • Review information posted by the local U.S. Embassy identify current local policies that may impact your travel (e.g., entry requirements, quarantine policies).

Education Abroad students:

  • Ask key questions of your provider or partner institution:
    • What is your protocol if there is an outbreak of a highly contagious disease?
    • Is housing provided for me if I need to quarantine?
    • Can I complete coursework online if I’m required to quarantine?

Faculty program leaders:

  • Consider access to medical care and quarantine housing options when deciding program location.
  • Ask key questions of the program provider, if applicable:
    • What is your protocol if there is an outbreak of a contagious disease?
    • Do you have enough support staff to assist with group management if I become ill?

Before You Go

  • Make a plan for managing your health and dealing with unexpected events while abroad. Direct specific questions to your healthcare provider.
  • Familiarize yourself with UT’s Overseas Insurance plan, including pandemic and quarantine coverage.
  • Be aware of any entry requirements for your host country (e.g., proof of vaccination for specific illnesses).
  • Purchase refundable airline tickets without change fees.
  • Enroll in the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety alerts/updates regarding travel restrictions from the local U.S. Embassy.
    • Non-U.S. citizens should enroll in an equivalent program for your home country.
  • Monitor your health and get tested if you exhibit any symptoms of COVID-19 or other highly transmissible diseases.
  • If you test positive for a contagious disease shortly before your planned departure:
    • All travelers: Contact your airline if necessary to reschedule your flight based on your current health condition and/or your host country’s entry requirements, if applicable.
    • Study abroad students: Contact your program coordinator or affiliate provider to determine how to proceed if you delay your departure.
    • Faculty program leaders: Notify Education Abroad and your program co-leaders and support staff to adjust the itinerary as needed.

Getting There: Travel Health and Safety Advice

The following steps can help you to protect yourself and others from easily transmissible illnesses when flying:

  • Check-in online to minimize time spent in line.
  • Maintain social distancing when possible.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Wear a well-fitting mask that covers your nose and mouth.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes.
  • Use cashless payment options when available.
  • Direct airplane air blowers on you for a steady stream of purified air.
  • Clean your hands often with soap and water or hand sanitizer that is 60% alcohol or more (view the TSA’s hand sanitizer carry-on policy).
  • Use disinfectant wipes (at least 70% alcohol) to wipe surfaces.
  • Remain in your seat, when possible, to minimize movement in the cabin.
  • Consider bringing your own food and beverages (as allowed by TSA and airlines).

While You’re Abroad

If you feel sick, contact On Call International immediately. They can assist with scheduling medical appointments for testing and treatment, and with coordinating quarantine accommodations if required. (Visit the Overseas Insurance page for policy and coverage details.)

If you contract a respiratory virus while traveling, adhere to CDC guidance on how to mitigate risk of transmission to others: Preventing Spread of Respiratory Viruses When You're Sick.

Monitor the latest policies and guidelines published by the local U.S. Embassy and as posted on official websites by public health authorities.

UT Austin expects all travelers to follow guidelines set forth by local governments, public health authorities, and institutional partners.

If you plan to travel outside of your host country, be sure to review entry policies for all destinations and ensure you understand requirements for reentry to your host country.

When You Return

Monitor your health and consider how to mitigate risk to your community upon your return. Contact your personal healthcare provider or call the UHS Nurse Advice Line at 512-475-6877 if you develop symptoms of COVID-19 or other transmissible diseases.