Everything you already know about what AIDS is and how it is contracted is as deathly true overseas as it is at home. Knowing this and taking all advised precautions is the only way to protect yourself. AIDS is considerably less an epidemic in some countries than in the U.S., and considerably more in others. Whatever the situation in the country you are going to, you are not more likely to contract AIDS there than here--IF you act sensibly and refrain from unprotected sex and other behaviors and habits with carry the risk of infection.

If the Country Requires an HIV Antibody Test: Some countries now require incoming foreigners, including students, to take the HIV antibody test. Usually this is required for long term stays. Check to see if the country you are going to requires HIV-testing. You may need a "doctor's certificate" showing the results of an HIV antibody test. Consulates in Washington DC and/or New York City carry information on HIV testing as well. If you decide you want to be tested, do so only at a center that offers pre- and post-test counseling. There are many institutions whose primary focus is AIDS counseling. Allow yourself two weeks for the testing process. Finally, consider getting tested twice--first anonymously, (which allows you the privacy to decide what you want to do if the result is positive), then again for a doctor's certificate, if needed.

Overseas Blood Transfusions and Blood Products And HIV Screening: While many countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, Japan, and the western European countries have mandatory screening of donated blood for the AIDS virus, not all do. You should find out before you go from your campus resources, from your local Red Cross and/or western embassies about safe sources of blood overseas. In some locales, ascertaining the availability of HIV-screened blood and blood products may be difficult. Because of obvious uncertainties, consider these precautions: If you are injured or ill while abroad, avoid or postpone any blood transfusion unless it is absolutely necessary. If you do need blood, try to ensure that screened blood is used. Regardless of the blood screening practices abroad, always try to reduce the risk of serious injury that may require blood transfusions by taking everyday precautions.

Overseas Injections and AIDS:. Be advised that some foreign countries will reuse even disposable equipment. In some countries, if injection is required, you can buy needles and syringes and bring them to the hospital for you own use. Avoid injections unless absolutely necessary. If injections are required, make sure the needles and syringes come straight from a package or have been sterilized with chemicals or by boiling for twenty minutes. When in doubt, ask to see how the equipment has been sterilized.

The Center for Disease Control recommends that "Diabetics or other persons who require routine or frequent injections should carry a supply of syringes and needles sufficient to last their stay abroad." Be aware that carrying needles and syringes without a prescription may be illegal in some countries. Take a note from your doctor if you do need to carry needles and syringes. Some countries have needles and syringes for sale. DO NOT use or allow the use of contaminated, unsterilized syringes or needles for any injections, e.g., illicit drugs, tattooing, acupuncture, or for medical/dental procedures.