Essential guide to moving safely to countries with health risks

Understanding the health risks of moving abroad

The most significant health risks are found in Africa and Asia. These can be categorized as:

• Infectious diseases and epidemics: Malaria, dengue fever, Ebola, polio, measles, rabies, cholera, and other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.

• Inadequate sanitation, particularly concerning food preparation.

• Under-resourced hospitals and substandard medical care

• Limited access to essential medicines and treatments

For more detailed information, check your home country’s relevant website for country-specific health risk profiles.

Before your move: Preparing for health risks

Thorough preparation is your best defense against health hazards when moving abroad.

Pre-expatriation health check-up

Before you embark on your journey, a comprehensive medical evaluation is essential. This should include:

• A blood test,

• A dental check-up,

• An ophthalmology consultation,

• Additional specialist consultations depending on your health (e.g., gynecology, chronic conditions).

Managing ongoing treatments and medical needs

If you are undergoing regular treatment, ensure you have several months' worth of medication before you leave. This includes coordinating with your healthcare provider about the possibility of bringing medications with you, adhering to import regulations. It's also wise to renew eyeglasses and stock up on contact lenses.

Plan ahead for the continuation of your treatments and medical care in your expatriation country.

Researching health risks in your destination

Take the time to thoroughly investigate the specific health risks in your expatriate country. Start with resources made available by your home country’s government entities or by the World Health Organization. A discussion with your general practitioner can provide further tailored advice.

Vaccinations: Essential and recommended

Authorities in each country outline specific vaccination requirements for travelers. It's crucial to ensure you're vaccinated against diseases prevalent in your host country. Common vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, cholera, rabies, yellow fever, typhoid, and dengue fever.

Health insurance: A must

Before you leave, secure comprehensive health insurance. This is particularly important if your host country is high-risk.

Your health insurance should cover medical emergencies, specialist consultations, hospital stays, and medical repatriation, especially if you are in a country with poor medical infrastructure.

Preventing health risks during expatriation

Adopting preventive measures abroad

Once you arrive, it's vital to adopt strict preventive habits:

• Be vigilant about the quality of water—always use bottled water, even for brushing your teeth.

• Avoid foods that carry contamination risks, such as raw vegetables, undercooked meat, and unwashed fruit.

• Pay close attention to food preparation standards.

• Carry hand sanitizers, antiseptics, tissues, and water purification tablets as needed.

• Wash your hands frequently 

• Avoid contact with animals to minimize infection risks.

• Take precautions against sexually transmitted infections.

First-aid and medication kit

Pack a well-stocked first-aid kit containing essentials such as paracetamol, antidiarrheals, antiemetics, antiseptics, and antispasmodics.

Identifying reputable local health services

One of the first steps after relocating should be to locate quality hospitals and healthcare providers. In some regions, healthcare facilities may lack proper equipment or fail to meet hygiene standards, so doing thorough research is critical.

Carrying essential health information

As a precaution, carry key health details with you, such as:

• A card listing your blood type,

• A note summarizing crucial health information: allergies, chronic conditions, and blood type,

• A medical alert bracelet, especially if you have conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, or severe allergies.

Moving to a country with health risks demands heightened caution. With proper preparation, preventive measures, and robust health insurance, you can mitigate health risks and embark on your expatriation with greater confidence and peace of mind.

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