Chapter 5: Health Issues

Before embarking upon your semester abroad, you should have a thorough physical checkup to rule out any underlying problems. You should also see your dentist and any other appropriate health care providers. If you have any medical conditions, bring a copy of your medical records with you.

Your health will affect your ability to enjoy and succeed abroad. Ongoing problems, whether they are physical or emotional, will not disappear abroad; instead, they may become more of a concern.

You will be given the names, addresses and phone numbers of local physicians and clinics during your on-site orientation in Florence. In the event that you require medical assistance, contact our Program Director, who will refer you to the school's recommended physician for minor illnesses. The Program Director will also assist you if a more serious problem exists or if you need a specialist. Naturally, in case of emergency, call the emergency numbers you will be given in Florence.

It's important to give yourself time to adjust. Students often catch a cold or have a minor stomach bug during their first weeks abroad; chalk it up to the stress of adjusting to a new country. Help yourself by getting enough sleep and eating a healthy diet.

Prescriptions/Medications

Students are permitted to bring regular over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol, Sudafed, etc. with them. You can buy over-the-counter medications in Italy (look for the sign "Farmacia" and the bright-green cross each pharmacy displays) but some medications may be unavailable or named differently, or more expensive than at home. Please plan accordingly.

Those who take prescription drugs should bring enough of a supply to last the entire stay. Don't pack these in your checked luggage! If you need a prescription, you will have to visit a doctor in Florence who will write you one. Remember, too, that drugs may NOT be mailed or sent via FedEx. Extra contact lenses, glasses, your optical prescription and full supply of cleaning solution, saline solution, etc. are all items you will want to bring in extra quantities. Your brand may not be available in Italy.

Alcohol

Unfortunately, American students have a reputation as irresponsible when it comes to the use of alcohol. Excessive drinking will not be tolerated, and is grounds for dismissal from the program at the student's expense.

Drinking too much leads to bad situations; you endanger yourself and possibly others. If you're intoxicated, you are an obvious target for thieves. We expect students to act responsibly while in Italy. Remember, you are guests in a foreign country and a representative of the Fairfield program, your own college, and the United States. Also remember that loud parties and inappropriate behavior will alienate your Italian neighbors, who do not hesitate to call the police. If you are arrested, WE CANNOT HELP YOU. Please demonstrate self-respect and don't reinforce the "ugly American" stereotype.

Illegal Drugs

If you are found to possess or use illegal drugs (determined by United States or Italian law), you will be dismissed from the program without any refund.

Be aware that European officials are exceptionally harsh on people caught with any type of illegal drugs. While the US has varying policies on drug possession and use, Italian drug laws are extremely strict and enforced. Your consulate can do very little to help you since you are subject to Italian drug laws. Fairfield University cannot assist if you are arrested.

Pre-Departure Vaccinations

No special shots are required for travel in Western Europe. However, an up-to-date tetanus booster and vaccines for meningitis and hepatitis are a good idea at home and abroad. Talk to your doctor.

Allergies

If you require allergy shots or medication, bring a complete supply with you. If you suffer from severe allergic reactions, we request that you have a signed copy of the doctor's orders in the event such an emergency rises. Please make your roommates and friends aware of where you keep this paperwork in order to ensure speedy and proper care. If you have serious food allergies, be especially careful when eating out - and learn the name of your "problem" food in Italian, so you can ask before ordering.

Water

The water in Florence is perfectly safe to drink but you may not care for its taste, as it is heavily chlorinated. Bottled water, carbonated (gassata) or not (naturale) may be purchased anywhere but it is cheaper in supermarkets.