Major FAQ-China English teaching
Health and safety
What are the principle health risks?
Basically, every country in the world has potential health concerns and China is no exception. In the following, you will find some of the major health risks for your China trip. Do be careful!
AIDS: Exists in China and every country in the world. The things to avoid are well known. The blood supply is not as safe as at home.
Bronchial and Sinus ailments : High rates in cities with highest air pollution rates, especially Beijing , Shanghai and Guangzhou .
Cholera: Notably present in western China
Hepatitis A and B: Very common due to less than ideal food storage, handling and cooking.
Malaria: Mostly in more southern regions and away from cities.
Polio: A one-time booster dose is recommended if you have not had one.
High Altitude Sickness : Very common when you travel in Tibet just like any other mountainous area. Symptoms are temporary and go away as soon as the victim returns to a lower altitude.
Rabies: Rabid dogs are a problem in most of the rural and semi-urban sites of China . You, therefore, should remain aware of and away from non-domestic or freely roaming dogs in China .
Typhoid: Consider a vaccination for long stays and if you are an adventurous eater.
Numerous others exist, but not in abnormally high or epidemic proportions.
What health precautions should I be aware of and tend to?
Be sure to consult your doctor or a travel health specialist before your trip to China . We suggest
- Check your medical records to assure you are current with your shots and vaccinations.
- Make sure you have had a recent TB test or chest x-ray (may be required for the Chinese visa).
- Get immunized against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid.
- Have an HIV test and bring the test results with you (make sure they state your name)
- Remain in good health well before your trip as some vaccines will require several weeks before they effectively protect you and some require two doses over a period of time.
Also, if you plan to travel to rural areas of China you should get the vaccination for Japanese Encephalitis and obtain pills to protect yourself against Malaria. If you intend to stay in cities, these are not required. If you plan to travel to western China or Tibet , it is generally recommended to get a Rabies vaccination.
Do I need health insurance?
Program fee does not cover insurance in China
You cannot always avoid sickness when you travel to any new country so your health insurance is crucial.
Though western and traditional Chinese medicines are widely available in most urban areas, you still need your own insurance to cover the cost.
Does Institute for Field Research Expeditions provide health coverage for my trip?
No, but you can purchase your travel insurance through one of our insurance providers.
Is the food safe if I buy from a street vendor?
While you are in China , food safety should be the major factor in your decision to abstain. You can hardly resist the temptation of the novelty of street vendors and food variety. Our suggestion is to avoid eating on the streets until you get familiar with the general situation. The food will likely taste quite different than anything you have had before. Food safety problems can range from chemicals and contaminants, to bacteria as well as some other diseases. In China , poor food cooking, preparation, and storage, as well as improper cleaning and disinfecting of cooking supplies is very common among street vendors.
Does Institute for Field Research Expeditions provide emergency evacuation insurance?
No, however you still can buy insurance from one of our insurance providers with medical emergency evacuation plans. It is your responsibility to deal with the insurance company.
How safe is China ?
Compared to many other countries, China is considered one of the safest countries in the world for personal security. But, petty crime has increased in recent years, especially in and around the major cities. However, serious crime against foreigners is relatively rare. Petty crimes such as pick-pocketing and purse-snatching occur somewhat frequently (especially in crowded areas such as stations, markets, shopping areas, sightseeing destinations, etc.). So, it is wise to be cautious with your personal possessions in public places. Following are some precautions to avoid potential problems:
- Do not show off your wallet or valuable goods in public
- Keep enough money for your immediate needs in your pocket, and hide the rest on your body or leave your backup supply in a safety deposit box at your hotel
- Always keep valuables in a safety deposit box at your hotel instead of leaving them in your room
- Remove any jewelry that may draw a thief's attention before you go out for strolling
- Never wear a bag or purse on your street-side shoulder in order to avoid becoming a target of the "snatch-and-ride"
- Never carry your passport/visa, credit cards, traveler's schedules or other travel documents in your shoulder bag.
- Be aware of the values of different local banknotes to avoid being deceived
- Be particularly cautious about your possessions in crowded areas such as local festivals, markets, tourist sites, railways, bus stations, or on trains and buses.
- Always let your hotel or guides know where you are on your free days during your tour.
- Respect the customs of the local ethnic groups.
- Do not quarrel with anyone during your trip.
- Any disputes should be reported to your local guides for resolution.
- Avoid traveling in areas or sites that are not open to foreigners.
- Do not voice publicly any opinions contrary to China 's laws and code of ethics and morals.
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